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LIBRARY OF CONGRESS. 
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UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. 




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BY MRS. J. B. COATS, o 




CINCINNATI: 
WALDEN AND S T O "W 

PRINTED FOB THE AUTHOR. 



1881. 



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COPYRIGHT, 1880. 

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. 



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PAGE. 

Introduction, 7 

The Oak and the Vine, ii 

Lines on Parting with a Dear Friend, 15 

John on the Isle of Patmos, 16 

Angel Ministry, , 22 

A Precious Memory, 24 

The Death and Burial of Jacob 27 

An Old Letter, 31 

Prayer during Battle, 37 

Apple Blossoms, 38 

Children's Picnic, ^ 4° 

The Death of a Neighbor, 44 

Seneca Lake, 46 

A Mother's Prayer, • 50 

A Memorial, 52 

The Earnest Pastor and his Faithful Wife, 55 

Le'iter from the Queen of Sheba 60 

An Hour with a Picture, 71 



4 Contents. 

PAGE. 

One of my Treasures, 74 

Keepsakes, . 76 

An Incident of Travel, 79 

God Magnified in His Works, 81 

Our Pastor, 82 

The Lily and the Rose, 86 

The Old Door Yard, 89 

The Double Funeral, 92 

Lines to a Daffodil, 102 

Longings for Home, . . . . ' f 102 

My Father's Bible, 106 

Here and There, iii 

A Memory of the Olden Time, 113 

A Sermon on Canvas 121 

A Christmas Po*em, 124 

The Hour of Prayer, 127 

The Lord Pitieth them that Fear Him, 130 

The Mother of Abraham Lincoln, 131 

An Afternoon at the Ferry, 135 

The Early Called, 140 

A Cherry-tuee in Bloom, 143 

Earth's Music, 144 

Through Watkins Glen, 146 

The Voice of Many Waters, 158 



Contents. 5 

PAGE. 

Waysidk Flowers, 160 

The Mighty Word, 162 

A Bridge of Years, 167 

Moses at the Burning Bush, 171 

A Gracious Answer 176 

The Mouning-glory, 179 

An Ideal Holiday, 180 

An Uninvited Guest, 183 

The Baptism, 185 

Nettie, 190 

Lines Suggested by a Death at School, 193 

My Pen and 1 198 



^ .=^t<^^^ ^ 

g ILLUSTRATIONS. g 

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PAGE. 

WaTKINS Glen, Frontispiece. 

John on the Isle of Patmos, i6 

Death of Jacob, 27 

Temple of Solomon, .^ 69 

The Old Door- Yard, 89 

A 'Memory of the Olden Time, 113 

The Angel's Annunciation, 124 

Earth's Music, 144 



■ T^. 







^= 



^HE mission of poetry is largely practical. 
The gift is by no means so rare as is often 
^' ^ supposed. The field of poesy is not one 
whose gates are guarded by strong and frowning 
sentinels, who only admit the great ones wearing 
the insignia of wealth and position. It is a beauti- 
ful domain where all pure and loving souls may go 
and enjoy their day-dreams of beauty, friendship, 
nature, and God. Unlike the other fine arts, 
poetry is left to struggle much alone. Masters 
of painting have their pupils, whom they lead into the 
mysteries of outline and color. Music has its conserv- 
atories, where the mind is trained in the mathematics 
of quantity, where the fingers are put under the most 
rigid discipline, and the soul is led into the delightful 
mazes of harmony. The poet has less help and fewer 



8 Intr o d uc tion. 

companions. He needs a more daring spirit, for in the 
schools less provision is made for poetry than for the 
other arts. 

Hence the poet struggles with greater difficulties. 
His must be a greater self-development. His must be 
a more positive originality. Perhaps this is best. 
When success is achieved it is lasting. It wins the 
widest recognition. 

There is not a little chivalry in the venture and ad- 
venture of a gentle woman taking the path indicated in 
this volume. It is a courage having its birth in a quiet 
rural home, amid th(^ loves of the household, the pres- 
sure of secular duties, and the struggles of a life that 
has in it the modestly heroic, for it attempts great and 
beautiful results in the face of contingency and trial. 

Christian love has prompted the work. It comes a 
fragrant offering to^ a glowing altar. Our friend, Mrs. 
Coats, has sung these songs from the banks of her own 
charming Seneca, and in the rhythm and the rhyme are 
the echoes of her beautiful surroundings. The field she 
has entered is a large one. The books of poetr}' written 
are many, but the world has need of them. The singers 
all have listeners. Some of them are sad and weary. 



Intr oduc tion. 9 

The key-note of every pure song rings meloch' into some 
heart. The age of poetr}' is by no means done. The 
new years bring new phases of society and history, and 
new interpretations of nature, and wider areas of divine 
wisdom, power, and love. To those famihar with 
the songs of the authoress the volume will have a 
peculiar charm. The melodies go forth for a double 
purpose, to drop sunlight into hearts and homes, and 
bring material aid to the beautiful Church to whose altar 
the book is a fragrant and willing offering. It shall go 
with many a prayer, and He who gathers the bread cast 
upon all waters will give the effort his smile and his 
blessing. So we commend the work for its own sake, 
and the benevolent design that accompanies it. 

DWIGHT WILLIAMS. 
August 2J, J 880. 




^i^^oi^M?, 




FRAGMENTS IN PROSE, f 



M!|e Oal5; anf[ tl\2 Yine. 

AM thinking- of the time 
When first I saw this tree — a Httle oak 
Not larger round than a man's arm, 
And yet it held itself in quite a lofty way, 
As if it meant to stand, even though strong 

winds should strive to lay it low. 
And so we thought to plant a vine beside its 

root, 
A vine that carried in its heart a prophecy of 
purple fruit in years to come. 
And so we watched the timid Httle thing. 
And by and by we saw it lift its eyes in bashful way 
up toward the oak, 
Which nodded back its welcome. 



12 Poems and Fragments. 

And from that day they were fast friends, and whis- 
pered to each other ; 

And the birds looked wise and poised their httle heads 
in listening way, 

As if some pleasant secret, they had come to share 
with them. 

And so through all the Summer days 
They lived their happy lives. 
The oak, growing in beauty and in strength, 
And reaching out its arms to meet the vine, 
Which swa)^ed and laughed in pretty and coquettish way, 
Until at last its gentle fingers touched the sturdy oak. 

And clasped them in a close embrace. 
Henceforth their lives were joined, and to each other 

they were all in all. 
And so the Providence that gives the lily its fair dress 
Gave to the newly-wedded pair their food from the 

moist earth. 
Or from the bracing air ; and gave them dew to slake 

their thirst, 
And washed their leafy robes with frequent showers, 
and blest them day by day. 



The Oak and the Vine. i 3 

And thus the years went on, no bHght of sorrow marred 
their Hves ; 
And the proud oak still prouder grew, 
Lifting itself high toward the heavens, 
As man, when crowned with wisdom, towers above his 
fellowmen. 

Meanwhile the vine, 
Made haste to wind itself, with stronger grasp, about 
the oak. 

Its leaves and tendrils clinging in modest way, 

Climbing to greater heights in fearless fashion. 

As though it might have said, 

"Where'er thou goest, I too will go." 
And so the oak, perhaps unconsciously, shielded the vine. 

Its great trunk keeping off the northern blast. 
While its broad crown of leaves caught the hot sun 

rays, 
Which in their fullest strength might scorch the vine, 

And blast its dainty leaves — 

It caught, and broke them up in little bits, 
And sent them drifting, here and there, over the vine, 
To warm its roots, and touch its clustered fruit with 
royal color. 



14 Poems and Fragments. 

And so it stands to-day, a pretty sight, 
With wide circumference of bough and leaf, 
Making an ample shade 

For all the birds, that love to picnic in its depths. 
Half-way around its vastness climbs the vine, 
Touching the rough gray bark in a caressing way. 
Or hiding in the depths of darker green; 
Its tendrils floating carelessly, 
Like lawless locks of hair that creep from out their 
fastenings, 
And twine and ripple over girlish faces, 
Or about their snowy throats. 

And thus the two go to make up a perfect whole. 

For the great tree, so massive and so grand, 

Might have within its heart of oak 
A sense of loneliness, and pain, and sorrowful unrest, 

Which presence of the vine doth heal and satisfy. 
And by its help in lifting up the vine to high estate, 

And caring in such tender fasliion for its weal. 

Incites the vine to friendship and lofty gratitude. 
And so through coming years each one will help the 
other, 



Lines. 15 

Until the habit of their hves 
Will be the ruling passion in their death ; 
And when the oak shall cast its leaves, 
And its life-pulses cease to beat, 
When its great form returns to earth, 
Then, like a widow in her weeds. 
The vine will hang its head, and drop its gay attire, 
Bowing in sorrow o'er its dead. 
Yet grateful that the same broad grave. 
The heart of mother earth, will shelter both. 



tiines 

ON PARTING WITH A DEAR FRIEND. 

HAT is the secret of the nameless grace. 

That, like a presence, follows in her train ? 
Is it the witching power of voice or face 
That makes us wish she soon would come again ? 

What makes the tender touch of her pure hand 
Bring to me comfort, all my being thrill ? 

Is it the outgrowth of Christ's last command? 
"Love one another, thus my law fulfill." 



1 6 Poems and Fragments. 

Is it her sympathy for us and ours ? 

As troubles gather o'er us dense and dark, 
Her helpful words have had a soothing power, 

To lift away the burden from our hearts. 

Is it the love glance from her kindly eyes ? 

Is it because our sorrows she would share, 
And knows just how to tell them all to Christ 

In fitting words, of sweetly uttered prayer? 

Whate'er the cause, we dread to say good-bye, 
For she has brought us joy in place of pain ; 

And so we hope the time will quickly fly, 

And being the day when she will come again. 



Jc'r^n on tl]B Isle n\ ^atmas. 

^[||ATMOS, a lonely, rugged isle, 
^\ Barren and desolate, 

W' Was made the home of Christ's beloved, 
Exiled for love of him who died for all — 
A life-long stain upon the sinful man 
Who, clothed with brief authority, 




1 




Jolin on Patmos 



yoHN IN Fa tmos. 1 7 

Doomed him to loneliness for weary }'ears, 
No friend to speak to him a word of cheer ; 

Naught left but precious memories 
Of the dear home on Galilee's fair shore, 
Of Jordan's winding stream, 
And all the beauteous land made sacred 

As the home of Him who bore our sins. 

The exile's feet paced to and fro 
From shore to shore of that lone isle. 
Except a single palm, no vegetation met his eye ; 
The sea-bird's note the only sound he heard, 

Save the dull music of the waves, 
As they surged back and forth against the shore. 

Yet he was not alone. 
For was he not Christ's chosen brother ? 
And he had cared, as only loving son could care, 

For the dear mother of our Lord. 
While he kept the lonely watch 
He lived again the years 

When the dear Christ walked with him 
O'er the Judean hills, 
Or, in its valley's, lingered 
To heal the sick, and comfort the afflicted ; 



r8 Poems axd Fragments. 

To give the weeping mothei- back her dead, 
Or teach earth's sorrowing ones 
To look beyond, to the good time 

When Life External might be made the heritage of all 

When high up the mountain side 
The exile sought, 'neath overhanging rock, 

A resting place. 
His stony pillow brought to mind the time 
When his head rested on the Savior's breast, 
And the last words of counsel from his lips 
Who said, " M}- peace I give to you." 

With aching heart 
He lives again those sad, sad days. 
He sees the form beloved dragging the heavy cross; 
And memory, faithful to her trust, 
Brings all the gloom\^ picture to his \'iew, 
Until the last, low wail from broken heart, 
"It is now finished," echoed from Cal\'ar)-'s height. 
Oh, how those words have thrilled from pole to pole, 
From center to circumference of this wide earth, 
Heralding the birth of joys uncounted 
To all earth's repentant sons. 



JoHiv IN Fa tmos. 1 9 

None but a God could have conceived 

A plan so wondrous. 
And the lone exile, full of rapture at the thought, 
Forgot the desolation of his home, and rested, 
As only loving heart can rest, in the Beloved. 

The Sabbath hush came down. 
Like benediction o'er the earth, 
As John came forth to offer morning sacrifice. 

The moon's last rays, 
The lines of light that spoke of day's approach, 
The voices of the air and sea. 

All told him of a risen Lord. 
He stands erect, 

His white locks wet with early dew, 
His eyes turned heavenward, 

Seeming to wear the look 
Of those pure eyes that beamed on him so long ago. 
His shining face reminding one of Moses 
When, from Sinai's cloud. 

He came to Israel's host. 

He says, "I, John, was in the spirit, 
And, while absorbed in worship. 
A voice, like trumpet tone, came to mine ear, 



20 Poems and Fragments. 

And heavenly vision met mine eye, 
Like to the Christ of other days. 

Yet, clothed with wondrous majesty, 

His face was hke the stin, shining in strength. 
A two-edged sword was in his mouth, 
And in his right hand seven stars. 

His eyes hke flaming fire, 

His head and hair were white Hke wool." 

John saw, and, like a dead man, fell to earth. 

Not long he lay entranced, for soon 
The dear right hand was laid upon him. 

The touch thrilled every nerve 

And brought him back to life. 
A voice, whose music was like many waters, said 

"Fear not, I am alive forevermore ; 
But write the things thou seest, 
The things that are and shall hereafter be. 

Be thou my messenger, and, 
To the angels of the seven Churches, write 

My tender counsels. 
My loving thoughts of them. 

Warn them to shun all evil. 
And strive to overcome. 



John ik' Pa tmos. 

That they, may eat of life's fair tree, 
And have the white stone, sign of victory." 
Early in life the loved disciple learned to obey, 

And now his Avilling hands 
Hastened to pen the words 

That fell from lips of Him 
Who held the keys of life and death. 

The work complete, 
And then the door of heaven was opened, 
And words of invitation fell upon his ear, 

' ' Come hither, 
I will show thee things which must hereafter be." 

We may not go in spirit, as did John, 
And see the throne with rainbow girt about ; 
Nor look upon the one who sits thereon, 
Whose likeness is to jasper and to sardine stones ; 

Nor can we hear the voices 
Which, like lightning and like thunder, 

From the throne proceed. 
We can not see the seven lamps, or crystal sea, 
But while we wait and labor for the highest good, 
We may, as did the four and twenty elders, cry, 
"Worthy art thou, O Lord, forevermore !" 



Poems and Fragments. 
j^ngel jVfinistnj. 

He shall give His angels charge concerning thee." 

RT thou traveling, sorrowing mother, 
O'er a rough and stormy way? 
Do the cares about thee gather, 
Growing heavier day by day? 
He the precious one, the Savior, 

He who dwells enthroned in light, 
Knows each trial, and each sorrow, 
And can bid them take their flight. 

Tired father, do thy footsteps 

Sometimes falter 'neath the load 
Of the burdens thou art bearing, 

O 'er the straight and narrow road ? 
He has promised that his angels 

Shall about thy pathway stand, 
And, with loving care and tender. 

Will uphold thee in their hands. 

Aged pilgrim, weak and trembling, 
Under more than fourscore years, 



Angel Ministry. 23 

As the shadows still enfold thee, 

Are thy cheeks bedewed with tears ? 

He will wipe away all sorro\\', 

Lift from thee thy grief and pain, 

And perchance the glad to-morrow 
Will restore thy youth again. 

Little feet that have just entered 

On the pathway to the skies, 
Do temptations e'er assail thee. 

And the tempests o'er thee rise? 
Look to Jesus, he has promised 

All thy footsteps welKto guard; 
Trust his promise and obey him, 

And his love be th}- reward. 

Watchman on the walls of Zion, 

Clothed in panoply of light, 
Do the arrows that assail thee 

Soil thy garments, dim thy sight? 
Look above, for angel watchers. 

Grouped about thee every hour, 
Carry tidings up to heaven, 

Bring to thee all needful power. 



24 Poems and Fragments. 



5^ ^reciaus ]V[Emci|y. 

^. 

OW like a living presence are memories of the 

past. They come thronging- about me to-day, 
peopling my quiet home with dear faces, breath- 
ing in my ear the music of voices which I shall hear 
no more until "death is swallowed up in victory." 
The years so full of joy, when our darling son, the 
"early called," was with us, have passed in review. 
His wondrous beauty, combined with unusual precocity 
and a loving, genial ternper, made him the idol of our 
hearts. His earnest eyes seem even now to be looking 
into mine, as he propounds some grave question of 
heaven and its joys, which can only be satisfactorily 
answered when this "mortal shall have put on im- 
mortality." 

He was early dedicated to God, as was little Sam- 
uel, and when little more than two years of age he, 
too, went to minister in "the temple" — not a gorgeous 
edifice built of hewn stone and rich in ornaments of 
gold, but a "house not made with hands, eternal in 
the hea\'ens." 



A Precious Memory. 



25 



John, "the beloved," has described it as perfectl}- 
as our poor language can convey the idea, but, please 
God, not far away is the time when we shall know for 
ourselves what the "heart of man can not conceive." 
I, too, was stricken with disease, and went with him 
to the river's brink. 

How I longed to go with my precious one, and 
lingered, listening for the summons home. In vain I 
waited. The little bark soon reached the other shore, 
while my poor aching heart tried hard to say, "It is 
the Lord, let him do what seemeth to him good." 

The dear elder Brother came in this hour of need, 
and the beautiful promise, " m}- peace I give unto 
you," was measurably verified to me. I could think 
and talk calml}' of my bereavement, and desired to 
feel resigned to the will of "Him who doeth all 
things well." 

Yet one single thought perplexed me: was my dar- 
ling, who had in life always been accustomed to the 
ministry of parents and sister, who shrank with timidity 
from all save the dear home faces, satisfied with the 
change? Did not the strangeness of heaven mar its 
perfection, to one of his delicate perceptions? 



26 Poems and Fragments. 

It seemed as though he must be longing for a ten- 
der father's embrace, a mother's enfolding arms, or the 
dear sister's songs and caresses. 

During a long period of physical weakness I grew 
to suffer from this thought, and as I had early learned 
to believe in a prayer-answering God, I went to him 
with this mystery. 

If my fledgling needed me not I could be happy 
in the thought that he was safe in heavenly mansions. 
So, in my weakness, I asked for one little sign that in 
heaven his happiness was unalloyed — a breath of frag- 
rance, the rustling as of an angel's wing, the impress 
of his kiss upon my cheek. Thus was I answered. 

My mourning is ended, and I know that when I 
near the "eternal hill" I shall inhale the fragrant at- 
mosphere of my loved one's home, I shall hear the 
rustling of many an angel's wing, and his dear lips will 
again meet mine as I am led to the mansions his hands 
have helped to beautify. 




Death of Jacob. 



Death of Jacob. 27 



[ACOB, the Christian patriarch, the grand old man. 
Who loved and trusted God so fully, 
Called to his sons, — 
Gather yourselves together, for behold I die; 

But God shall be with you, 
And bring you to your father's land again. 
Then in words prophetic he blessed each son. 
But choicest blessings rested on the head of JosepJi, 
Who had saved his brethren 
And his father's house 
When famine, gaunt and shriveled. 
Stalked through his native land. 

And Jacob charged his sons, 
"Gather me unto my people. 

With my fathers bury me ; " 
Then gathered up his feet and yielded up the ghost. 
And Joseph fell upon his father's neck 

And wept, and kissed him, 
Sorrowing most that he should see his face no more. 



2 8 Poems and Fragments. 

Nor hear his words of blesshig : 

And he bade the servants, his physicians, 

To embahn his father's body. 

And the learned men of Egypt 
Gathered gums and fragrant spices, 

And, with skilled hands, 

Applied them to the form so loved. 

That they might still look on his face. 

And all the brethren mourned, 
And the Egyptians mourned, until the days 
Three score and ten of those that are embalmed 

Were all fulfilled. 
After which, Joseph, the model ruler in Pharaoh's house, 

Sought audience with the king, 
Saying, "If now I have found grace with thee, 

Hear me, I pray. 
My father made me swear to lay him in the cave 
Digged in Machpelah's field in Canaan, 
Long since bought for burial place." 
And then he told him of the kindred resting there, 
And asked, "Now let me go, I pray, 
And thus fulfill my vow, 
And surely I will come to thee again." 



Dea th of Jacob. 29 

Then Pharaoh bade him go, 

And take with him 
The servants of the king, 
The elders of his house. 

And all the princes of the land. 
The house of Joseph and his brethren, 

And his' father's house, 
All save the little ones, the flocks, and herds. 
And with him went 
Horsemen and chariots, not a few, 

A great and sorrowing company. 
Not all the splendors of a Pharaoh's court. 

With gilded pomp, and Orient garb. 

Could soothe the mourning hearts. 
Save as they spoke the grief 
That Israel's death had caused. 

In solemn state they marched, 
While memories of the good man's life 
Brought comfort to their hearts. 

As corn and wine of Eg}'pl 
Had brought health and strength 

In those old famine days. 
A long and weary pilgrimage it was, 



30 Poems and Fragments. 

And yet it brought some rest into their hves, 
For thus the father's dying- wish was met. 

Beyond the Jordan 
The sad procession halted seven days 

At threshing floor of Atad, 

And mourned a grievous mourning, 
Until the dwellers in the land of Canaan said, 

"This place shall be called Abel-mizraim, 

The mourning place of Egypt's host ;" 
Then onward moved to Jacob's chosen burial place, 
Made sacred as the tomb of Isaac and Rebekah ; 

Abraham and Sarah, too, 
Had found a resting-place within its walls, 

And Leah, wife of Jacob. 

The tomb was opened, 

And the treasured form was placed within; 

And, when the door was sealed, 

Joseph, the lord of Egypt, 

Knelt upon the consecrated ground 

And, with his brethren. 

And all the nobles, servants of his king. 
Gave thanks to Israel's God 

That this, his work of love, was now complete. 



A.v Old Letter. 31 

And there the}^ left 
These honored sons and daughters of the Uving God, 
To rest together, until the resurrection morn, 
When they will rise, and, with united chorus, join 
With patriarchs, prophets, priests, and kings, 
Saj'ing, ' ' Salvation, glory, honor, power, 
Unto the Lord our God." 



°^\\ 015 liEttEII. 

'^j- HOLD in my hand an old letter. 
31' 'Twas written a long time ago, 
^ And the hands that moved over the paper 
Long since were laid under the snow. 

The paper — a huge sheet of foolscap — 
Is blotched and defaced b}' the }'ears ; 

Sometimes I almost fancy 

That I see the traces of tears. 

The letters are large and well-shapen; 

O'er margin and border they spread ; 
The heart that prompted the letter. 

Was mourniuGf over its dead. 



32 Poems and Fragments. 

In his fresh, young manhood, the writer 

Had chosen a lovely bride. 
And it seemed as if all the future 

Would be bright if she walked by his side. 

For a {q\\ short months she tarried, 

Bringing comfort and rest to his home. 

And then the dear hands were folded, 
Henceforth he must journey — alone. 

Then his heart turned toward his }'oung brother 

Gifted, and loving, and true. 
And he willed to bury old sorrows, 

Tried hard to begin life anew. 

The love was returned in large measure, 
As when David and Jonathan loved, 

The two souls in sympathy woven. 
The covenant sanctioned above. 

But the old grief was deep aiid abiding; 

So stricken was that manly form. 
That he shivered at sight of her tombstone. 

And friends ceased to mention her name. 



An Old Letter. 33 

He walked forth enshrouded in sorrow, 

No Hght found its way through the gloom, 

The sun rays were powerless to cheer him, 
His heart found no rest, but the tomb. 

At last he left the old hearthstone, 

Friends feared, with reason dethroned ; 

No tidings, no signs did he leave them, 
But went out a wanderer, alone. 

They waited, and ceased not to pray 

That the years would restore him again. 

And the dear young brother, each day 
Remembered his burden and pain. 

But time moved apace and the child-brother grew, 

And took up the work of life, 
And he asked God to help and anoint him anew 

For the labor, the toil, and the .strife. 

His earnest prayer a prophecy proved, 
For his heart was illumined with light; 

The armor of faith he buckled on. 

Made God's service his ei'eatest delisflit. 



34 



Poems and Fragments. 



He studied the Word and sought souls to win, 

And told of Christ's power to save 
His hiends and neighbors from paths of sin, 

And darkness, beyond the grave. 

But there came a time, a sorrowful time. 

When disease, with its pitiless train. 
Came and bound the strong man and laid him aside, 

To battle with suffering and pain. 

Loving hands were outstretched to soothe and bless, 
Loving hearts were o'er burdened with grief, 

And prayers were offered for help and rest, 
That Christ would send speedy relief. 

But the dear Father thought to take him home. 

Away from the toil and the care. 
He cheerfully went, for Christ had gone 

Before him, the way to prepare. 

A chaplet they wove and placed on his brow, 

And strong men wept bitter tears ; 
The wife and children wondered how 

They could live on through the years. 



An Old Letter. 35 

Months slipped away and this letter came — 

'Twas penned in a distant clime; 
The writing was strange, and only the name 

Made us think of the dear old time 

When the brothers sat by the bright hearth-fire, 

Ere the blight of sorrow came. 
And we knew, as we read through the blinding tears, 

That the lost was found again. 

He told of the time when his earl)' grief 

Had turned his heart to stone ; 
Of the blackness of night that o'er him spread, 

As he trod life's path alone. 

Tender the words he spoke beside, 

Of the nobleness and truth 
Of the bright young boy who, by his side. 

Had walked in the days of his }'outh ; 

Rejoiced that his manhood was crowned with grace, 
And the souls he had sought to win, 

As polished jewels would shine at last, 
Cleansed, purified from sin. 



36 Poems and Fragments. 

At last his pen grew eloquent, 

As he spoke of redeeming power, 
Of the love that sought and comforted him. 

In that fearful trial hour ; 

The tender touch and needful help 

Of the dear Christ-crucified, 
Who lifted him out from the depths of woe, 
, And gave him a place by his side ; 

The assurance of rest when the day was done, 

Of union with brother and friend, 
A welcome to heaven from Father and Son, 

Where brightness and peace ne'er shall end. 

More than threescore years have passed since then, 
And the writer has gone to his rest, 

Where Christ doth abide, and the mansions and crown, 
And the friends that in youth he loved best. 



PrA YER D URING BA TTL E. 37 

^iiayEii l)uiiing Battle. 



FROM THE GERMAN. 



3 



ATHER, I cry to thee, 

Enveloped in smoke, 'mid roar and rattle, 
Darting lightning flashes through the battle- 
Guide of battles, I cry to thee ; 
Father, do thou lead me. 

Father, do thou lead me 
To victory or death, lead by thy hand, 
O master, I recognize thy command ; 

Master, as thou wilt so lead me ; 

God, I recognize thee; 

God, I recognize thee, 
In the Autumnal rustling of heather, 
So in the thunder of battle weather; 

Fountain of grace, I recognize thee ; 

Father, do thou bless me. 

Father, do thou bless me, 
Into thy hands my own life I commend. 
It thou hast given, in strife it may end ; 



38 Poems and Fragments. 

Bless in life, or in death bless me; 
Father, I praise thee. 

Father, I praise thee ; 
It is no combat for fortunes of earth; 
We protect with the sword truths loved from our birth. 

If victorious, praise I thee ; 

God, commend I myself to thee. 

God, commend I myself to thee, 
Though the thunder of death my ear shall greet; 
Should my life-blood flow, and my heart cease to beat; 

God, commend I myself to thee; 

My Father, I cry to thee. 



j^pplE Blossoms. 

HE air was full of sweetness. 
For May, the month of bloom. 
Was throwing, with lavish hand, her treasures far 
and wide. 
And while I longed to run away from work and care, 
To watch the opening bud and springing flower, 
One came, with loving thought intent, 



Apple Blossoms. 39 

And brought to me 
Clusters of apple blossoms, pearly white, 
And other groups of buds unopened, with tinge of pink, 
As if the lips of morn 
Had touched them with its rosy flush. 
And so my heart was glad. 
Glad for the charm of bud and flower, 
Glad for the love that placed them in my hand. 

Later I wandered forth to see the tree 

From which the dainty gift was plucked ; 
And it was wonderful, 
Like a great crown of drifting, shimmering light, 
Lifting high up, and stretching far toward north and 
south. 
Toward eastern sk)', and sunset glow, 

Its graceful branches 
Seeming as if it might give shade and comfort 
To half a hundred hungry hearts. 
And as I waited, a merry group 
Came trooping up, three roguish girls. 
And how they did rejoice, and clap their hands. 
At sight of so much beauty; 



4° 



Poems and Fragments. 



Ran and shouted, 
As they made haste to pluck 
The great white balls of bloom and pelt each other, 
Or wove them into garlands, far more tasteful 
Than the golden crowns that princes wear. 
And the old tree smiled down upon them, 

As its rain of snowy leaves 
Fell over floating locks of gold and brown, 

As though an unseen hand 
Were strewing blessings o 'er their heads. 



6J|il5iicn's i^irnir. 

Mays the dear elder sister to Jennie and Fan, 

Make haste with your lesson^, for I have a plan; 
When the tasks are all ended, we'll get mother 
to say 

That we children may have a picnic to-day. 

Away to the garden where Summer fruits grow, 
With baskets in hands let us hasten to go; 
I am sure we shall find that the berries are ripe. 
As well as the currants both icd, black, and white. 



CHILDREN'S Picmc. 



41 



The raspberry bushes stand guard near the gate, 
All marshaled in line under orders to wait ; 
They are tastefully dressed, though without shoulder- 
straps. 
And in uniform style, for they all wear caps. 

Yet they differ in taste, for some caps are white, 
While others wear red, just as pretty a sight; 
Still others think they'll not dress like the rest, 
And insist that black becomes them the best. 

As they seem happy to have their own way. 
It will hardly be needful for us to stay ; 
And, after we've gathered a share of the fruit, 
We'll give and receive a parting salute. 

Next the ripe cherries so juicy and sweet. 
Good for the birds, good for children to eat ; 
The great black Tartarian is fit for a queen. 
And the dainty white cherry, no better is seen. 

Beside them is a tree of the famous ox-heart. 
And the old-fashioned cherries with just enough tart; 
They delight the heart of matron and maid, 
They make the best pies that ever were made. 



42 Poems and Fragments. 

But the birds seem inclined to have a share, 

And as there is plenty, and some to spare. 

We '11 invite them to come, they will not refuse, 

And make them quite welcome to whatever they choose. 

The gooseberries claim our attention also, 
For side by side with the cui'rants they grow; 
They are right royal berries, toothsome, and grand, 
For gooseberry tarts, or to eat out of hand. 

The strawberry vines have earned a long rest. 
Their great luscious berries, the nicest and best, 
Were gathered last week, and made into jam. 
Packed in bowls, and in cups, and in cans.- 
We '11 spread our feast in the arbor wide, 
In the coolest place, on the shady side, 
Where the sunbeams quiver through the leaves. 
And the shadows play among the trees. 

We'll trip along through tangles of vines, 
That in their self-will refuse to twine 
Over the frames in an orderly way. 
But hide in the grasses and wander away. 

We'll dance to the music of birds and of bees, 
On the velvety carpet, that dear nature weaves; 



CHILDREN'S Picnic. 



43 



As happy as fairies, in innocent play, 

For our hearts will be full of delight all the day. 

We'll fashion a swing 'neath the willow's shade, 

Of wov'en grape-vines it shall be made; 

We'll have a broad seat that shall hold two or three. 

Cushioned with mosses the seat shall be. 

We'll have a gay time the whole afternoon, 

And the dews will be falling for us far too soon ; 

But we '11 try to be good, and one month from to-day 

We may possibly have another play-day. 

Whole races of plums with their cousins and friends, 
Will greet you by scores, by hundreds, by tens; 
Their wardrobe, so varied with green, blue, and gold. 
That you'll almost wonder, "can they ever grow old?" 

The great golden peaches will try to abide 
'Neath clusters of leaves, their blushes to hide; 
Yet to make children happy is part of their plan, 
So they shrink not from touch of a little soft hand. 

And thus the late spring-time has fruits of its own. 
And when golden sunshine of Summer shall come 
Its fruitage reminds us of God's promise given. 
Of the rainbow he wrought, and hung in the heavens. 



44 Poems and Fragments. 



(HE dear old man, 

So ripe in years, so rich in goodness, 
Who through all his later life 
Has garnered treasures for the better land, 

Is ready to depart. 
His fourscore years have been well spent, 
For he loved God, and loved to do his will ; 
He loved the house of prayer. 

Where he found strength and help. 
A Bethel was his closet, 
Where his soul was fed each day with heavenly bread. 

He loved the souls of men, 
Aud sought to win them to the higher life. 
The Word of God was dear to him ; 
Its precious truths like unto household words. 
Which made his daily speech a benediction to other 

hearts. 
And now his days are nearly run. 
He lays his armor by, he needs it not; 
His battles are all fought, his victories are complete ; 



Death of a Neighbor. 45 

And quietly he says, 
"The time of my departure is at hand; 
No fear have I, for I have kept the faith, 
And He, whose word is sure, has said. 
Henceforth there is a crown laid up for me, 
A crown of righteousness, which God the Judge, 
Shall give me at the last." 

And holding fast the word which held the promise 
Of the resurrection of the just, he died, 

Laying aside the flesh 
As ripened ears burst from their husky covering, 
Which falls to earth. 

While the ripe grain is garnered 
As a prophecy of fuller life in time to come. 

And when God wills 
The worn and tired frame which yielded to the power 

of death 
Shall all be changed, and newly wrought, 
And clothed with health eternal, 
Yet with familiar smile and glance 

To cheer immortal eyes 
That knew him in the flesh. 



46 FoEMs AND Fragments. 

KHOU loveliest of all the lakes, 
We fain would speak thy praise ; 
But much we fear 
That fitting words we may not find 
To clothe the thoughts that come to us. 
We know thou art beloved, 
For when we journey from th}- side 
We miss thy presence, as if some pleasant thing 
Had slipped away and left us in unrest until restored 

again. 
And so in early morn we seek thy face. 
Perchance to see thee veiled in mist, 

Which might be 
Breath of prayer, or praise from thy great heart 
Ascending towards the heavens. 
Or yet again we see thee restful, placid. 
The drifting clouds reflected in thy depths. 
As if an answered prayer were nestling there. 

And thou art beautiful at close of day, 
When shadows fall aslant, 



Seneca Lake. 4j 

Touching- the farther shore; 
Revealing light and shade, and golden gleam, 
And silver sheen, and broken rays. 
And bars of light, in almost every hue. 
As if a passing rainbow had been charmed. 

And lingered for a time, 
As lovers linger, to watch the changing face, 
Or listen to the music of the voice most dear. 

We love thee in thy quiet moods. 
For thou dost prophesy of peace and rest ; 
'Tis then we best can read thy thoughts, 

And hsten to the tales of olden time. 

When silence reigned supreme. 
We marvel much at all the knowledge 
Thou hast gained of nations that have lived and died ; 
Of other secrets thou hast kept for centuries, 
Sealed secrets, till the waters 

Yield their treasures up. 
We know that thou couldst tell us 

Of thy wondrous depths, 

That line or plummet can not sound. 
And of the living tribes that dwell so far beneath, 
That human eye ne'er rested on their homes. 



48 Poems and Fragments. 

We dare not peer into thy hidden mysteries. 
But love to hear thy voice 
Discoursing of such things 
As may be right for us to know. 
And surely we may talk to thee, and thou to us, 
Of all the beauteous things that gird thee round 
(Most fitting setting for such royal gem) ; 
Of rocks, 
And hills, and emerald slopes. 
Of quiet groves, and waterfalls. 
Far reaching pastures, broken up by tiny silver threads, 
That wander down to find their way 
Into thy life. 

We know the glens ^nd gorges. 

With their strange wild beaut)% 

Through which come tidings of the world beyond, 

Are dear to thee ; 

And we know, too, that thou art happy. 

In changes wrought from day to day. 

As nature puts on seasonable dress. 
Laying aside her wintry robe 
To don the pretty garb of Spring, 
Made up in daintiest device, and colors rare. 



Seneca Lake. 49 

Later, to be exchanged 
For trailing Summer garments, made in 
Richer tints, with draping exquisite. 
Of vine and leaf, which please and satisfy; 
Until at last the Autumn comes, with stately tread, 

Bringing such wealth of color, 
That it seems that all the earth has brought 

Its tributes to her feet; 
And, with a quiet dignity, she moves about. 

Touching each tree or shrub 

With gold or scarlet flame, 

With brown or russet. 
Or with brushes dipped in royal purple dyes, 

Until thou art so clothed about, 
That if one looked o'er all the earth, 

A lovelier spot might not be found. 

Thou art of life a t}-pe, 
And so we sympathize in all thy moods. 
Sometimes fierce winds assail, 
As if to test thy strength, 
And storms beat hard, and bring to thee distress; 
And thou art wearied with the strife, 
4 



50 Poems axd Fragments. 

And dost call forth thy hidden forces, 
Who come in legions and battalions, 

In wrath and foam, 
As if their fnry would not be appeased. 
Even in the voice of battle 
Thou art grand, for we are sure 
A guiding- Hand will hold thy rage, 

And that thy bounds are set. 
And when the Voice that rules the world 
Shall bid thy waves, "Be still," thou wilt obey. 

And so in storm or calm, 
Thou tellest us of Him, "whose way is in the sea. 
Whose path leads through the waves, 
Whose footsteps are not known." 



^ ]V[ot!|Er's ^imyEi^. 

^TT was in early morning of a year long gone, 

ol" A mother's voice was pleading for a precious son ; 

■^? Dear Father, wilt thou bless and save our only one ! 

The mother's heart was aching with its dread and fears, 
She asked God for wisdom to help her through the years, 
Her voice was low and sweet and full of unshed tears. 



A MOTHER'S Prayer. 51 

She did not ask that he in wealth or fame should share, 
But asked that he might lead a life of pra)'er, 
And if it pleased God, he that life would spare 

To be henceforth a chosen blessing to his race. 
And while he talked with God as face to face, 
Teach others how like precious faith to embrace. 

Angels with pitying heart were hovering near, 

And the dear Savior kindly lent his ear 

And heard her prayer, and counted every tear. 

Time hastened on, the mother's heart was sta}'ed 
By loving care of Him, whom gladly she obe3ed, 
For in His hands her burden had been laid. 

Later the blessed hour of triumph came 
When he, the son she loved, rose to proclaim 
Redeeming grace, undying love, through Jesus' name. 

And then of good old Simeon's faith she thought, 
Praised God for mercies that his hand had wrought. 
That through shed blood redemption had been bought ; 

Thought of that sad morning, all its grief and pain ; 
Thought of the tears that fell like Summer rain. 
And of God's promise, "I will come again." 



52 Poems and Fragments. 

And he had come in such abounding love, 

Bringing the best gift from the courts above 

And laid it on her heart, His peace, the blessed dove. 



PENDING a little time in the home of a friend, a 
bereaved mother, our thoughts and words naturally- 
drifted to our "treasures in heaven;" for although 
many years had passed since our darling son "was not, 
for God took him," yet each look, act, and tone of his 
is as familiar as though he had died but yesterday. 
And there are times when an intense longing comes to 
me for a "touch of the vanished hand," or a glance 
from the heavenly eye. 

My friend's bereavement had occurred more re- 
cently. Only two years had passed since little Lois 
died. She was an only daughter, about eight years of 
age, yet thoughtful, almost womanly in her ways. 

She was the idol of parents and grand-parents, and 
during the long months in which she suffered from dis- 



A Memorial. 53 

ease her room became the receptacle of many and 
choice gifts, brought to cheer her otherwise lonely- 
hours. Not far from her own little couch were her 
dollies, suitably provided with dainty sets of furniture, 
and various appointments for housekeeping, over which 
Lois presided with a grave and quiet dignity. The 
walls of her room were hung with pictures and pretty 
trifles, arranged in artistic fashion. 

Upon her table were the books and Sunday-school 
papers she loved to read, from which, with rare judg- 
ment, she would select the best things. Many treasures, 
besides, saved up during her short life, which held each 
some pleasant memory, or helped her to forget the pain 
and weariness, were strewed about. Here and there 
were bouquets of grasses, and everlastings. Autumn 
leaves, and festoons of vine ; and amid these pleasant 
surroundings the little sufferer was nearly always happy. 

And so she lingered on, tenderly loved and minis- 
tered unto, and so patient she was, that friends could 
truly say of her, " Of such is the kingdom of heaven." 
But at last she grew so weary, that, .with a loving kiss 
for the dear parents, a tender glance at each of her 
treasures, she closed her eyes, to open them upon 



54 Poems and Fragments. 

brighter scenes and more enduring possessions. More 
than two years had passed, and the key was turned, that 
strangers might not look upon the room where Lois 
died. 

To-day it was unlocked, and we, who loved her 
memory, were permitted to pass the threshold. All 
was unchanged. Just as her last glance rested upon 
each possession we found it to-day. Each article 
seemed sacred, for they belonged to Lois now as much 
as in the days when their presence soothed her pain, 
and made endurable her weary hours of waiting. 

As the sun glanced through the windows, touching 
in a subdued way the dainty things that Lois loved, we 
felt that the room, with its surroundings, had been to 
her almost like the "Mount of Transfiguration," for as 
one by one the loves of life drifted away, the brighter 
glories of the world of light unfolded to her view, am- 
ple and more than satisfying compensation for all 
earthly loss. 

Eight years on earth, swift passing years, 
Fraught with life's changes, smiles, and tears ; 
Two years since Lois went to rest. 
Two years in Heaven among the blest. 



The Ea rnest Pas tor. 5 5 



KNOW a faithful wife, 
Who gladly gave her youth and beauty, 
Her talents, one and all, to God, 
And to his service. 
To-day she stands beside the man 
Who chose her out from all 
The worthy multitude, 
To aid him in the woric of winning souls of men 
From sinful ways to pleasant paths. 
He, a noble Christian pastor. 
Breaking with clean hands the "Bread of Life," 
Touching, with unsullied lips. 
The living waters. 
Which he gladly offers to other thirsty ones. 

That they may drink and live ; — 
His aid, God's Spirit and his precious Word. 
Among its treasures he finds milk for babes. 
And stronger food for older ones. 
And by it he is taught 
To give to each his portion in its proper time. 



56 Poems and Fragments. 

Rare and rich in flavor 

Is the food he ofttimes serves, 

As marrow and as fatness to the hungry souL 

And so as lapsing time marks days and years, 
They walk together o'er the chosen way. 
Sometimes his strong, brave heart 

Seems to grow faint 
As heavy burdens press him down, 
And then the voice beside him 
Quotes sweet, helpful promises, 

" Lo I am with you alway, even to the end;" 

Be not dismayed, I am thy God. 
Or if, perchance, 

The clouds above grow thick and dense. 
And seem to shut away the lights 
That God has hung above them, 
Her quick eye sees the little rift 
That lets a ray of brightness through ; 

And then he knows the sun still shines, 
And that God's love is over all. 
The)' journey on, and pass, perhaps, 

A group of little ones 
Who, in the sunrise of their days, 



The Earnest Pastor. 

Flit like the butterflies from flower to flower, 
And as they gather sweets, leave little 

Benedictions by the way. 
And while the pastor and his gentle wife 
Talk to them of the precious Christ, 
Of how he blessed the little ones, 
And said, "Of such heaven's kingdom is;" 

Tell how he gave his life 
That they might have the best and choicest gift, 

The}' each resolve to seek and find, 
And turn their tender feet the heavenward way, 
Singing, meanwhile, 
Their little songs of peace and lo\e. 

Again the}^ pass a weary pilgrim. 
Bending low above his staff; 
His hands are almost palsied, 
And his trembling feet will soon refuse 
To press the sod o'er which he passes 
Toward "the prize bej^ond the race." 
And as the kindly hands 
Meet his in love and sympathy, 
And uttered words like these fall on his ear, 



57 



58 Poems and Fragments. 

"The mercy of the Lord, to those who keep his Word, 
Forever will endure," 
His being thrills with joy, 
A foretaste of the rapture unexpressed 

He soon will share. 
Now and then these travelers halt 
At pleasant little bowers along the way, 
Where orange blossoms 
Bless the air with fragrance, 
And wine of love surcharges youthful hearts 

With hope and happiness ; 
Where vows and blessings, tears and smiles commingle. 
And both the pastor and his wife rejoice and smile, 
And, with a quiet prayer for future weal, 
Go on their way. 
Ofttimes they reach the homes 

Where sickness, death. 
And bitter mourning sit enthroned, 

And there they tarry longest ; 
Where the shadows lengthen, and with 
Harmonious voice, and lip, and touch, 

Chant hymns above the dead, 
Or soothe the souls just going out of life. 
Asking for holy oil for bruised hearts 



The Earnest Pastor. 59 

The while, they tell of rest for His beloved. 
And still they journey, 
Each watching for the nets and pitfalls 

Spread to ensnare their feet. 
Each with the shield of prayer and faith 
To foil the foe that lurks along the path ; 

And if the lions grouped beyond 
Seem fierce and terrible, they falter not, 
But march with firm and steady step, 
To find them chained and powerless ; 
For just above are angels. 
Who keep watch and ward. 
That dangers hedge not up their way. 

And thus their lives are crowned with blessings. 
And precious memories come drifting in 
Of garnered souls, 
Which shall be jewels at the last, 

Of numbers who have gone before 

To welcome them. 
Of others who will follow to the blissful shore. 

Whom they will meet and welcome, 
Saying, as they lead them to the throne, 
"Here am I, Lord, with those thou gavest me." 



6o Poems and Fragments. 



liEttei] ^i]cm tt]E QuEEii o^ ^i]Elia. 

[This paper is supposed to have been copied from a parcliment 
nearly three thousand. years old, describing the journey of the queen 
of Sheba from her home in Southern Arabia to Jerusalem, and her 
reception at the court of Solomon. It was written to the noble 
"Ahia," scribe and historian to the queen of Sheba, dated month 
"Nisan," since the days of Adam about three thousand years.] 

f haptcr |. 

«L„S I have promised to send you tidings of our wel- 
fare by each returning caravan, and as we, to-day, 
^'^ have pitched our tents for a few hours at this first 
oasis we have reached in the desert, refreshing ourselves 
and camels at the cooling waters, I find refuge from 
the scorching rays of the sun beneath the broad palms. 
My faithful "Cusha" appears with the reed, parch- 
ment, and ink horn, desiring to record the eve»ts of our 
journey thus far. Our undertaking was, indeed, for- 
midable. No woman has made so vast a journey since 
the days that Ham, the son of Noah, settled in this, 
the uttermost part of the earth. If our ancestors, 
Cush and Teba, were still living they would look with 
wonder at one of their own nation with a magnificent 



Queen OF Sheba. 6i 

train of camels, laden with choice gifts on her way to 
the far north, to visit the greatest king the world has 
ever known. According to reports that have reached 
our ears the glory and wisdom of Solomon have never 
been surpassed. Not even the Pharaohs, with all their 
boasted learning and the grandeur of their Egyptian 
courts, could compete with the world-renowned Solo- 
mon. After bidding you adieu we started in a north- 
erly direction, following the old caravan road, keeping 
the mountains along the coast in view, catching now 
and then from openings in the chain glimpses of the 
waters of the Red Sea — so appropriately named from 
the red coral found in abundance along its shores. 
Away to the right, as far as the eye can reach, are 
sandy plains with only now and then a few palms and an 
occasional spring to relieve the monotony of the desert. 

My fleet-footed camel moves proudly over the sands 
as if conscious of her errand, and the saddle embroid- 
ered by your direction is the admiration of all our 
company. The pack camels are laden with every 
needful comfort, and travelers say our outfit is the 
most perfect they have seen. 

For ten days we have traveled, and no calamity has 



62 Poems and Fragments. 

overtaken us. We passed, yesterday, a mountain of 
sand, the effects of one of the terrible winds that sweep 
across the desert, which turned us for some distance 
from the route of travel. We dismounted, prostrating- 
ourselves in token of gratitude that the "simoon" had 
not made us graves in the desert. Our guide, who 
was one of the skilled workmen sent by Hiram, Icing 
of Tyre, to aid Solomon in building the "Temple," 
not only leads us by the safest routes, but continually 
interests us by accounts of Solomon and his wealth 
and power. He has also had access to the history of 
their nation, and I am more deeply impressed each 
day as I hear of God's miraculous dealings with them, 
that he is the same God who furnished in a wonderful 
manner the lamb to our father Abraham when about 
to sacrifice his only son, and that he will become the 
God of the whole earth. I will say to you my friend 
and counselor what our people do not know, that my 
heart cries out for something more satisfactory than 
our vague ideas of God, and although I desire to see 
Solomon, and hear his words of wisdom, yet T hope to 
find a greater than Solomon ere I return to my south- 
ern home. 



Queen of Sheba. 63 

§hapter ||. 

We passed, this morning, so near the harbor, south 
of the eastern arm of the sea, that we had a fine view 
of one of the ships belonging to the navy built by 
Solomon. 

Our guide Amaziah, the Tyrian, left us a little 
while to day, asking the loan of two camels, one to be 
saddled for use, the other carrying an empty pack-sad- 
dle. He promised to be back at the noonday hour. 
In the mean time we feast our e)'es upon Sinai, whose 
rugged heights are plainly discerned across the gulf, 
which is perhaps six or eight miles in width at this 
point. On leaving, our guide placed in my hands a 
scroll, which contains an account of the ascent of 
Moses, the law-giver, to Sinai's summit, where for twice 
forty days he dwelt with God. It was here that the 
tables of stone were prepared, and the law written by 
the finger of God, and from the parchment I learn that 
the same tables of stone were deposited in an ark pre- 
pared for them, taken to the land of the Israelites, and 
are now in the Temple at Jerusalem. 

Can it be possible that my eyes will ever behold the 



64 Poems and Fragments. 

handwriting of God ; will my ears be gladdened by the 
sound of words from his lips? Our good Amaziah is 
coming, but not alone. I must hasten to be arrayed 
in purple to receive a guest. My maidens tell me it is 
the daughter of the king of Tyre,'^ Armaiah by name, 
and that she has been for some months a dweller in 
the house of Solomon's wife. This accounts for her 
Egyptian costume, as the queen still clings to the 
customs of the land of her birth. The vessel, it ap- 
pears, has been waiting some days for our caravan, 
and this youthful princess, through an arrangement of 
Solomon, is to .be my companion. I can not receive 
her as in my beautiful palace at home, but must hasten 
to her with words of greeting. 

fhaptcr |||. 

I FIND the princess exceedingly lovely; her fair fresh 
beauty is of the northern type, for her childhood was 
passed where the breezes from Lebanon fanned her 
brow, and she could bathe in waters from the snows 
of Hermon. She has just been telling me that thirty 
thousand men were sent to the mountains to prepare 



f Tradition gathered from Commentary. 



Queen of Sheba. 65 

timber to be used in the Temple, and of the fir trees 
and cedar trees, that were brought in floats from T)'re 
to Joppa, thence conveyed by ox-carts overland to 
Jerusalem. 

She has a profound admiration for Solomon, but is 
in love with the queen, and has not only adopted the 
costume of the Egyptian ladies, but is learning their 
forms of worship. Among her treasures are idols 
brought from the banks of the Nile, and she tells 
me that the Egyptian maidens who serve the queen 
all worship idols. My heart yearns over the young 
girl, and I hope we may both find our way to the 
true God. 

We find many points of interest as we hasten 
onward, for we often cross the old trail of the Israelites, 
who through disobedience, it is said, wandered for years 
in the wilderness. I find by the record that their food 
was rained down from heaven, and their thirst assuaged 
from the_ smitten rock; that the pillar of cloud that 
went before them by day, and of fire by night, denoted 
God's constant presence; and yet they distrusted him, 
and joined themselves to their idols. 
5 



66 FoERfs AND Fragments. 

f hapter |^. 

We miss the bracing atmosphere as we get farther 
from the sandy plains, but we find more abundant veg- 
etation, wells more frequent, and groves numerous; and 
here- we pitch our tents, that the camels may rest after 
their wearisome march. We find the princess, Ar- 
maiah, quite learned. She has met with ambassadors 
from many nations of the earth, and has gathered from 
the scribes in the king's household knowledge of their 
customs, and of the laiTds in which they dwell. She has 
just been describing her visit, as companion of Solo- 
mon's wife, to Tadmor, called by the Greeks Palmyra. 
The city is built in the heart of the Syrian Desert, and 
is a proud monument of Solomon's glory. 

No cit\' in the world equals it in magnificence. 
Even Jerusalem, the dwelling place of the king, can 
not compare with Tadmor in the desert. Here the 
caravans between the Mediterranean and the Euphrates 
meet and interchange commodities through this chan- 
nel. The East and the West pour their wealth into the 
coffers of Solomon, and with unsparing hand has he 
lavished it upon tower and column, altar and temple, 



Queen OF Sheba. 67 

until this great mart of commerce has become the 
Avonder of the world. 

We are now traveling rapidly toward the borders of 
the land of Canaan, and although I had hoped to pass 
along the eastern shore of the Dead Sea, visit Mount 
Nebo, from whose summit Israel's lawgiver saw the 
"Promised Land," journey through Moab, where God 
buried Moses, and cross the Jordan just where the Ark 
was borne over by the priests, yet our guide tells me 
the shortest way is through the Wilderness of Judah; 
and as my errand is urgent, we hasten by the nearest 
route. To-night we encamp near Hebron, Avhere is 
the cave of Machpelah, bought by Abraham for a burial 
place. 

Here he was buried with Sarah, his wife; also Leah, 
Isaac, and Rebecca were here entombed, and Jacob, 
who died in Egypt. How strange that I may look 
upon the tomb of my ancestors, some of whom were 
buried five hundred years ago. Another day and we 
shall encamp under the shadow of Mount Moriah. 
Amaziah, the Tyrian, has already sent a message to 
the court of Solomon of our near approach. The 
thought that I am about to visit "The Temple," God's 



68 Poems and Fragments. 

accepted dwelling place, seems to leave no spirit in me. 
That his presence overshadows it I am sure, for it is 
said when the tables of stone were placed within the 
Holy of Holies a cloud of glory filled the house. 

The messengers have returned with tidings that a 
portion of the house of the forest of Lebanon is set 
apart for our use, and that my men and camels will be 
taken in charge by the governor of the king's house- 
hold. Amaziah, who is skilled in works of art, will 
arrange the gifts we have brought, and Armaiah, whom 
I have learned to love, will go with me to the presence 
of Solomon. 

Chapter ^. 

The day so long looked for has come and gone. 
We have had audience with the wisest king of earth. 
We are told that God bade Solomon ask what he most 
desired, and he asked wisdom. Truly it has been given 
him in large measure. 

He received us in the porch of the house of Leba- 
non, which is fifty cubits in length. The camels were 
unladen, and the gifts arranged according to their value. 
The precious stones, the ivory, the gold and silver, 



Queen of Sheba. 69 

tortoise shell from the rock Perim, myrrh, and spices, 
with the choice balsam that only grows in our country. 
The king rejoiced at sight of the royal gifts, and 
gave orders that on our return the camels be reladen 
with fragrant woods from the forest of Lebanon, ele- 
gant embroideries, and rare commodities from Palmyra, 
to which the wife of Solomon will add choice speci- 
mens of Egyptian workmanship. 

f haptcr p|. 

But all these things are of small account compared 
to the knowledge I have gained of our fathers' God, 
Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob trusted in him ; he was in 
the wilderness forty years with Moses and Joshua; he 
talked with David and gave Solomon his heart's desire ; 
henceforth, he is to be my guide and the helper of 
my people. 

The glory of Solomon's kingdom I can not describe. 
The house of Lebanon, the king's house, and the pal- 
ace of the queen, with their furnishings, to which the 
whole earth has contributed its rare and costly products, 
makes me feel the half has not been told. But the 
Temple is the crowning glory of Solomon's work. 



70 Poems and Fragments. 

Hither I am drawn each day to worship, and as I com- 
mune with the king of all that is in my heart, or study 
the law given by God through Moses, a light like the 
glory that filled the Temple seems to illumine my un- 
derstanding and dissolve my doubts. 

I am learning that the sacrifices are but types of 
the purer offering suggested by the words of Moses 
and the patriarchs; and as I look upon the veil which 
hides from view the Holy of Holies I know it will 
some time be lifted and the "glory that was with the 
Father before the world was" shall be revealed. 

The Temple built without the sound of hammer, 
with its perfect architecture, its beautiful proportions, 
its ornaments of gold and precious stones, is a prophecy 
of a house not made with hands held in reserve for 
God's obedient children ; and as by the wisdom of Sol- 
omon I have been taught these precious truths, I am 
led to say "Blessed be the Lord thy God which de- 
lighted in thee, to set thee on the throne of Israel, be- 
cause the Lord loved Israel forever ; therefore, made 
he the king to do judgment and justice." 



An Hour with a Picture. 71 



5^n Jfoui] will] a J^ictiir^E. 

HE day was long and lonely, for the cheery group 
that brightened my home had flitted out for a 
time, and the rooms were desolate. 

So to comfort myself I picked up a roll of pictures, 
rare engravings and pencilings. As I glanced at each 
they had a sad or pleasant story to tell. But I lin- 
gered longest over a dainty cross, with draping of ivy, 
all tastefully wrought by fingers that were now stilled. 
My thoughts went back a few years to the time when 
the fair young girl whose handiwork it was came to us 
to pursue her chosen avocation as teacher. 

She was a delicate creature, fair to behold, high- 
souled, and strong of will in the right; and although she 
had a few trials, she had much success, and many 
friends. 

And so the long Summer days went and came in 
brightness or cloud, as was their wont, unmindful of 
the shadows that followed her footsteps. She often 
spoke of her future as desiring to do some good work for 
God and humanity, but as she strove to mark out her 



72 Poems AND Fragments. 

way, in one or the other direction, an abrupt angle 
would shut the future from view, or unexpected obsta- 
cles would arise, until her path seemed lost in the years. 

But she laid her hand in the hand of the Father, 
and tried to walk as he seemed to lead. After a time 
came an urgent request, from a friend in a distant city, 
to come to her for the Winter months. So she laid 
aside her burden of work and care, and went with a pur- 
pose to be happ3^ and to help make bright the home 
where she was to be a welcome and honored guest. 

And she did enjoy, with a rare zest, the beautiful 
things by which she was surrounded. And the months 
seemed all too short for the blessings that crowded 
themselves into her life. In the early Spring came pre- 
monitions of disease, and friends feared the shadows 
that had followed in the distance were gathering 
strength ; but she fought bravely, and at last rallied, 
hoping yet to do some work before she went to the 
better countr}-. 

She wrote cheering letters, and the light of hope 
rested on her brow. Soon again the shadows drifted in 
and out, each time tarrying a little longer, until at last 
friends knew that death lingered near, and time was 



A A' Hour with a Picture. 73 

hastening the sad result. Mother and friends were 
summoned to her side. All was done that love could 
prompt or gold could buy, but of no avail. 

She saw her way clear, at last, up to the very 
tlirone where Christ as mediator sat, and understood 
why one and the other chosen path had been hedged up. 

The home and the love toward which she was tend- 
ing seemed very delightful to her. She prepared calmly 
to enter upon her untried future, only asking that her 
remains might be laid in the cemetery she loved, by the 
friends still dear, and then peacefully died. She had left 
us bright and hopeful. 

When we saw her again she was robed for burial. 
Loving hands had done their work well and tastefully ; 
and so lovely she looked, it seemed as if the angel of 
death must sorrow over the work he had wrought. 

Above the feet, that would never again grow tired, 
or be wounded by the roughness of the way, a beauti- 
ful mossy mound was fashioned, through which was en- 
wrought, with snowy buds, the word ''Rest.'' 

How we rejoiced with and for her, as we looked at 
this beautiful prophecy of her future, and knew that 
she was realizing its fulfillment ; while to us it was a 



74 Poems and Fragments. 

harbinger of hope, of the possibiHties in store for us. 
She had reached at last the " Land of the Leal," where 
no more crosses were to be builded or borne ; where no 
dark shadows could interpose to hide the brightness; 
"where the nations of them that are saved shall walk 
in the light of it, and the kings of the earth shall bring 
their glory and honor into it." 



One 0^ ]V[y ffirieasunes. 

MONG my treasures is a beautiful and costly book. 
Its elegant binding, its tinted golden edged leaves, 
and rare engravings, all speak to me of the love 
which prompted this delicate gift. 

Its subject matter thrills my heart, for it tells of my 
Christ, his pure life, his sufferings, and sacrifices, while 
each page directs me to the "Lamb for sinners slain." 
Inclosed is a tiny sheet of paper, upon which I find in 
delicate tracery, the names of the Sabbath-school class 
which I have tried, for many months, to lead heaven- 
ward. Hidden among the leaves of my book are the 



One OF My Treasures. 75 

faces that I meet from Sabbath to Sabbath. Among 
them are good and noble girls, who have early learned to 
sit at the Savior's feet and be taught of him. They have 
exalted views of life, and its duties, and will go forth 
as earnest workers in the "Master's vineyard." Others 
there are who have not yet yielded to the claims of the 
Gospel, but their lives are so consistent, their innate 
nobleness so apparent, that we are justly proud of their 
pure record, and feel assured they will soon be gathered 
into the fold. 

A fair young wife who has known much of sorrow, 
is with us, learning to rest in Christ. From early child- 
hood she has so needed a Savior's guiding hand, and 
we rejoice that she has found him "the chief among 
ten thousand." Perchance she is to be made perfect 
through suffering. A dear girl from the sunny South 
has come to us, half orphaned and struggling with 
trials. May the promise, ' ' I will never leave thee nor 
forsake thee," be verified to her. 

The bright face of a boy of twelve Summers is 
among the group. He brings to the class a knowledge 
of each subject under consideration far ahead of his 
years ; but we know he was the only son of an invalid 



76 Poems and Fragments. 

mother, who by constant and prayerful labors, as she 
drifted toward the grave, succeeded in implanting in his 
heart a portion of her own beautiful faith, as well as a 
saving knowledge of the "way of life." The loving 
mother grew more and more feeble, and one day in the 
early springtime she went home. May her prayers and 
teachings be an enduring legacy to the orphaned son. 
The dear circle is now broken ; some of the loved 
ones, at duty's call, have found other homes ; but I ex- 
pect to meet them all again, and our trysting place will 
be among Eden's bowers. When the Master makes 
up his jewels, may each member of the class be there 
to receive "The robe and the crown." 



^j- HAVE a drawer full of gathered treasures, 

a|' Some given in life's morning long since past; 

■^ They tell me of the precious love unmeasured, 

The love that through unending years will last. 

I have a book, both old and quaint in fashion ; 
Its leaves once fair, are now by time defaced. 



Keepsakes. 7 7 

'Tvvas a reward of merit, I remember, 

And on its first blank page two names are traced. 

I have a little coin in tarnished silver. 

It tells me of a battle fought mid tears and pain. 
And how at last I came away a victor, 

For right had triumphed and its foe was slain. 

I have a roll of writing, scraps, and sermons, — 
The hands that wrote were folded long ago ; 

I have a fragment of a wedding garment. 

With silken letters woven through and through. 

I have a linen cap, by nimble fingers netted, 

Its crown and border wrought in daint}^ lace ; 

And well do I remember how it covered 

The snowy hair, and wreathed the placid face. 

I have a picture almost hid in shadows, — 
The loving eyes are dim, only outlined ; 

The face is full of sweet and patient sadness, — 
No marvel why, for the dear eyes were blind. 

I have a flower, woven from threads of hair, 

A fadeless flower, the fruit of thoughtful love : 

It hung, a dainty curl, above a brow most fair, — 
The wearer now dwells in the home above. 



78 Poems and Fragments. 

I have an apron, worn by tiny maid 

('T is yellow now, but once 'twas white as snow). 
She was a winsome, loving little thing, — 

The Savior called and she went long ago. 

I have a comb, and it was used to fasten 

The raven tresses of a sister's hair. 
She called her children to her side one morning, 

And kissed them all, and died 'mid breath of prayer. 

I can not name the half of all my treasures, 
Their value more to me than wealth in gold ; 

To other eyes they would not seem so precious, 
But each to me some tender memory holds. 

More dear than all, the uttered words at parting 

With the dear friends, whose wings were plumed for 
flight ; 

More precious was the glory shed about them. 
As if reflected from the world of light. 

Yet better still will be the words of greeting, 
That we shall hear from lips unstained by sin ; 

And full of bliss will be the joyful meeting, 

When Christ our Advocate shall bid us enter in. 



An Incident OF Travel. 79 



(raveling on the Erie road not long since, I be- 
came interested in those who came and went from 
our own car. As the train halted at an important 
station, I saw, standing upon the platform, two ladies 
engaged in pleasant converse, showing by every look, 
act. and word that they loved each other tenderly. 
As I observed them more closely, I fancied a resem- 
blance as between mother and daughter, and was quite 
sure, at last, that the daughter was a resident of the 
pretty town through which we were journeying. While 
absorbed in their pleasant companionship the signal for 
departure was given. The good-b}^es were hastily 
spoken, a whispered prayer, I knew, was breathed from 
each, and they separated. The mother entered the car 
in which I was seated, while the daughter stood watch- 
ing, with tear-wet eyes, for the last look and final wav- 
ing of farewell, as the train passed from her sight. My 
thoughts lingered with the daughter, glancing back a 
few short years, perhaps to the time, when a bride, she 
had gone out from her childhood's home, loving the 



8o Poems and Fragments. 

husband who had chosen her and well beloved by him, 
and yet I knew an aching void was left that the new 
home and pleasant surroundings, even the love of her 
heart's chosen, could not fill. For often she must yearn 
for a sight of the home faces, and for the tender parental 
care that sheltered her in childhood. 

A movement of the mother recalled me from my 
reverie, and, as she lifted her bowed head, I knew she 
too had been thinking of the "dear eldest born;" of 
their homes so far separated ; of the time that must in- 
tervene ere they might meet again ; of the possibility 
that sickness or death might make the separation final ; 
and, as my eye met hers, the mother-love revealed 
itself so strongly, that my heart was drawn instinctively 
toward her. Rising, I took from a niche, in the side 
of the car, a Bible, placed there by divine inspiration 
(I am sure), and laid it in her hand. She gave me a 
quick, grateful look, and turning the leaves read lesson 
after lesson from its pages, marking here and there ; 
and as I watched her she seemed to grow comforted. 
Later I lifted the volume to find the words which had 
soothed her heart, and read this text: " Lilce as a 
father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them 



God Magnified. 8i 

that fear him." And another: "The mercy of the 
Lord is from everlasting to everlasting upon them that 
fear him, and his righteousness unto children's children, 
to such as keep his covenant, and to those that re- 
member his commandments to do them." 

And I rejoiced at the fullness of the Gospel, that in 
every sorrow or emergency that might come into our 
lives some comforting word or helpful promise is given. 



Qnfl jV^agnifiecI in Jfis ^ci^^s. 



HEN I consider thy heavens, unrolled like a scroll, 

A marvel of vastness, of majesty sublime, 
Eternal in breadth, like duration of soul. 

Created far back in the youthhood of time; 

When I remember the great plan was made, 

In thy secret chambers the corners were laid. 

That thou, the Creator, with marvelous skill. 

Thine own hands with beauty the heavens did fill 
6 



82 Poems and Fragments. 

From thy hidden treasures, thy storehouse of Hght, 
The moon and the stars, thy gifts to the night, 
In thine own paviHon thy thought did ordain. 
And their voices thy greatness and glory proclaim- 

We can but inquire, O what is man, 

Thou art mindful of him in th}' wondrous plan — 

Man, humble, and lowly, and full of sin, 

And yet thou deignest to visit him? 

But in thy precious Word thou hast said 
That man little lower than angels was made. 
That dominion and power to him should be given, 
Honor on earth and a crown in heaven. 



Oui] J^cIStClT. 

(here came to us to minister in holy things, 
A man chosen from out the common herd; 
His heart was filled with love of souls, 
And all his wealth of intellect was called to aid 
In winning them to Christ. 
Earnest and faithful, 



Our Pastor. 83 

He labored as those who give account; 
And for his hire the hearts of men 

Were turned to God. 
More precious far to him such pa}^ 

Than gold or precious stones. 
Such an one God delights to honor, 

While the good and wise 

Render to him the homage due to one 

Stamped with the impress of his Maker. 

And those who did not love the truths he preached, 
While listening to his burning words. 

Were well assured 
That he was one of God's anointed. 

Our Savior chastens whom he loves, 

And so our friend and pastor felt 
That pain and anguish came by his permissive providence. 

He loved his Christian calling. 

And labored on through failing strength 
Until his poor, worn frame refused to bear him 

To the temple of the Lord. 

And then his mourning flock came to his side — 
The gray-haired men, who like the Aarons and the Hurs, 



84 Poems and Fragments. 

Had held his hands from falHng; 

And the dear mothers of the Church, 
Who loved their pastor, and were by him beloved; 

Young men and maidens, 
Who, through him, were taught the better way; 

And little children, whose fair brows 
His hand and voice had blessed, all came, 

With hopeful words and loving gifts, 
And bade him rest and seek for strength, 

That later he might come to them again. 
And yet they sorrowed, as did the elders. 

When they bade farewell to Paul, 

Fearing that they might see his face no more. 
'Twas then the burden of men's souls 
Was lifted from him for a time, 

And in its place a longing came 
For health restored, 
Hoping with added power and life renewed 
To do grand work in years to come. 

And though his constant heritage was pain, 
He roused himself. 
To seek the needful help mid other scenes. 

Hither and thither, like dove of old. 



Our Pastor. 85 

He wandered, seeking rest, 

Drinking of crystal fountains. 
As he prayed that they might be to him 

As living waters, 
Taking from skilled hands the balm, 
That we all hoped might give a lease of added years. 
And yet he thought of God, and heaven, 
His future home, with rare delight, 
And fed his faith with precious promises, 
Praying each day the prayer, 
"Thy will, not mine, be done." 

And while we watched and waited 
The result with anxious hearts, 
We seem to hear the words prophetic, 
"It is enough, come higher up." 
Infinite goodness made the struggle short, 
For while loved ones still clung to him, 

With grasp persistent. 
The pearly gates were opened, and he looked within the 

veil. 
The glories of the inner temple were revealed, 
While voice, far sweeter than the notes of angels, 
Breathed in his ear, "Ye blessed of my Father, come 



86 FoEMs AND Fragments. 

Take thine inheritance prepared so long ago." 
A backward look, words full of tenderness 

To mourning friends, 
And then with song of praise upon his lips, 

His eyes were closed to earth. 
And thus our pastor entered into rest. 



ffi^B liily ctnt[ tJ^B S;csE. 

FROM THE GERMAN FABLE BY HERDER. 

lj|i;AIR daughters of the rough black earth, 
^/^ Tell me, wilt ye, 

yis Who gave your beautiful forms? 

Skilled fingers, surely, fashioned you. 
What spirits mounted up your tiny cups? 

And were you pleased 
To see them rocking on your leaves? 

Say to me, silent flowers, 
How did they share among themselves - 

Their joyous task? 
And did they beckon to each other, 

As they spun so skillfully. 



The Lily and the Rose. . 87 

Or made embroideries to adorn your texture delicate ? 

Lovely children, you are silent, 

And well enjoy your life. 

The learned fable shall relate 
What your lips are unwilling to reveal. 

The earth once stood, a naked rock, 
When, lo ! a friendly multitude of nymphs 
Brought virgin soil to spread it o'er; 
And spirits kind, were ready soon 
To deck with flowers the naked rock. 

In various ways they shared their task; 
Already, 'neath the snow, in the small grass. 

Modest humility, in secret wore, 
The self-concealing violet. 

Hope came close after, 
Filling with cooling fragrance 

The refreshing hyacinth. 
Now, since these had well succeeded, came a haughty 

throng 
Of beauties, many hued. The tulip raised its head, 
The pale "narcissus glanced about with longing eye, 
And many nymphs and goddesses were busied now, 
In various ways, adorning earth, 



88 Poems and Fragments. 

Rejoicing in their beauteous work. 
But, lo ! when time had passed, 
A greater portion of their work had faded ; 
Its glory paled. 

And their delight in it was gone. 

Then Venus thus addressed the graces, three: 
Why tarry, sisters fair, of gracefulness? 

Why are ye idle? 
* Take of your charms, arise and weave 

A blossom mortal, visible. 
They went to earth, and one Aglaia, 
The grace of innocence, fashioned the lily fair, 
Then Thalia and her sister Avrought the flower 
Of joy and love, the virgin rose. 
Many flowers of field and garden 

Have envy each to other; 
The lily and the rose unenvious. 

Are envied of them all. 
As sisters they bloom together. 

On their plot of Spring, 
And each doth grace the other, 
Their lives conjointly woven. 

In ei'ace of sisterhood. 




The Old Door-Yard. 



The Old Door Yard. 



(he dear old yard, with its tangled green ; 
Its great long beds, with the walks between ; 
The lilacs tall, reaching up to the eaves, 
With their fragrant bloom, and their wealth of leaves. 

How fresh it all looks since the early storm. 
That came in such earnest, this very morn, 
As if mother nature, most surely did mean. 
That grasses and flowers should all be kept clean. 

And well they enjoyed the bath, I am sure; 
Their faces look fresh, and their garments are pure; 
And they lift up their heads, as if they would say, 
We have on our company robes to-day. 

And the peony sa}'s to the dainty bluebell, 
I am sure, little dear, that you look very well. 
But for my part, I like gorgeous colors to wear. 
Of my beauty, you surely must be well aware. 

And the bluebells, and whitebells, smiled each in its way, 
And asked of the other, what ought they to say. 



90 Poems and Fragments. 

For they cared very little for colors or show, 
They only desired their duty to know. 

They finally thought to say nothing at all, 
For soon it would fade, and its "^' pride take a fall;" 
And so they just bowed their wise little heads, 
'Twill the sooner be mended, if little is said. 

And the roses laughed, as the breezes came, 
And touched their bloom with colors aflame, 
Or draped them in robes of dainty white, 
Or in warmer glow, like the sunset's light. 

And the rose, that looked most like the sea-shell's heart, 

Was honored the most, and set apart. 

To place at the throat, or in braids of hair. 

Of the maiden beloved, So wondrously fair. 

Who wandered about, 'mid the grasses and flowers, 

Or hid herself deep in the green old bowers, 

To listen to what the roses would say. 

As they whispered, and nodded, and threw sweets away. 

The fragrant syringa looked on in its pride. 
Its pure creamy blossoms are fit for a bride. 
While its sheltering arms give comfort and shade, 
To the tiny home the yellow birds made. 



The Old Door Yard. 91 

The little white lilies resolved not to stay ; 

In the bed they were planted, but wandered away, 

To hide themselves down in the grasses alone, 

As the bride and her husband seek out a new home. 

Honeysuckles climb at their own sweet will, 
As if gathering nectar, their cups to fill ; 
And the song-birds hasten their way to wing, 
'Mid its tangled sweetness, their songs to sing. 

And stately great lilies, with coats of old gold. 
Are marshaled in groups, as if converse to hold; 
While the dark velvet pansies nestle down at their feet. 
For purple and crold, royal colors, should meet. 

Close by the old well, the cherry tree stands, 
Where the gre\' squirrels meet, to talk of their plans, 
And wonder if down in the trunk they could store 
More food than they placed there the Autumn before. 

Evergreens stand by the door yard gate. 

With their boughs entwined, they patiently wait. 

And watch o'er the growth of each bud and each flower. 

Rejoicing at sunshine, and glad of the shower. 

Choice fruit trees are scattered here and there. 
And they teach us a lesson of faith and prayer; 



92 Poems and Fragments. 

For God has revealed, by unfailing sign, 

That fruitage shall come, in his own good time. 

The wayside maples lift high up their heads, 
Though smiling down still at the flower beds. 
And the sun rays are glinting the boughs between, 
Making golden mosaic, on emerald green. 

Thus the Father's great love, in his works is displayed, 
For the earth in its fullness, for us he has made ; 
His beautiful gifts are to all freely given. 
Till earth's needs are met by the beauties of heaven. 



[he bell was tolling, 
Its measured voice reached up and down the 
village streets, 
Telling the funeral hour had come. 
The town was all astir, as from each home 
The inmates came to look upon the faces of the dead. 

The crowd came surging in, 
Filling the church, all save the mourners' seats, 



The Double Funeral. 93 

Until the aisles were packed, galleries were crowded. 
And sympathizing friends were grouped without, 
With reverent hearts, as the two coffined forms, 
Were borne within the portals, and placed side by side. 

Then came the father, bent with age and sorrow. 

By his side the widow of his son. 
Who, stricken down in manhood's prime, 

Had died three days ago. 
Next, with trembling feet, the mother followed, 
Led by the husband of her eldest born, 
A daughter idolized in life. 
Who passed away in early morn of yesterday, 
Brothers and sisters of the dead bearing a double weight 
of woe. 

And children, 
Who had never known a grief 
Ujitil this bitter hour. 
Were seated round their dead. 

A tide of sorrow 
Seemed to sweep o'er every heart, 
For we had known and loved the brother and the sister 
in their early years; 



94 ■ Poems and Fragments. 

Had watched the young girl's budding womanhood, 
Rejoiced with her when one, who seemed well worthy, 

won her to his side, 
And bore her to his sunny home in other lands ; 
Had heard, with thankful hearts, of fortune's smile, 
And sorrowed, when the mournful tidings came. 

Of her heart's idol shattered, 
Of broken health, of fevered cheek, and racking cough, 
And how she wanted to come home to die. 

A few days later the manly brother. 
Who still tarried in his early home, 

On whose strong arm the aged parents hoped to lean 
As they went down the western slope of life, 
Went forth to meet the sister, who had journeyed far 

To look again upon the dear, home group. 
How he wept at sight of the white face and wasted hands, 
As tenderly he bore her to the couch 
Where she had slept and dreamed in childhood's hour; 
Where breath of honeysuckle drifted in. 
And climbing roses bowed their heads in grief 

At sight of the poor wasted form 

They fain would heal and bless. 



The Double Funeral. 95 

The weeks went slowly by, 
As the poor sufferer languished on her bed of pain, 

Happier when the brother, 
By whose side she sported in the olden time, 
Could sit beside to soothe the aching head. 

Or wet the fevered lips. 
And mother's touch was not more tender, 
Or mother's love more thoughtful ; 

It almost seemed as if the angels must have helped, 
So quiet were his footsteps, 
So comforting each word he uttered, so restful his 

caress, 
That even death seemed loath to sever hearts thus joined, 

And waited for a little time. 

A lovely morni-ng dawned : 
The sister knew the weary watcher needed change, 

A breath of purer air, 
And bade him go, adown the vale, and gather mint. 
And bring some wildwood flowers. 

Wet with the early dew. 
He, thinking 
To tempt her dainty appetite, shouldered his gun, 



96 Poems and Fragments. 

Hoping to bring a bird or squirrel 

From the woodland depths. 
Meanwhile she slept a long and restful sleep, and woke 

refreshed, 
But missed her faithful nurse ; yet smiled to think 
He might have found some quiet nook, 

And, soothed by nature's lullaby, 
Was sleeping too, as she had seen him sleep. 

When wearied in boyhood's days. 
And her heart grew warm 

With memories of his tenderness in those old days; 
And then she thought of all his weary watching. 
In these later hours of pain. 
And her spirit joyed for such a royal gift, 
A brother's love. 

The sun climbed higher, 

And the day had numbered half its hours. 

And still he lingered. 

The noonday meal was spread, 
But none could taste until the truant came ; 
And so one went to find and bring him home. 

No answering shout returned the call, 



The Double Funeral. 97 

But, following on his track 
By the bruised flowers his feet had pressed, 
Too soon the)' came upon his shattered form ; 
A broken arm, a wounded side, 
From which the blood oozed forth, 
Told all too plain the awful truth, — 
The noble, manly heart had ceased to beat. 

Tongue can not tell, nor pen portray 
The darkness that o'erspread that home, 

Expressed in such a cry 
As rose throughout the land of Eg}'pt. 
When one lay dead in every house. 
The sister only gave no sign, 
But folded her thin hands, and prayed to die, 

And to be buried by his side, 
As if the grave would be less dark if he were near. 

Quiet forms moved softly through the shadowed rooms, 

And tender hands arrayed the dead. 
Sweet promises were spoken to the stricken one. 
Who faded hour by hour, until in early dawn 
The watchers saw the white lips move, 
And, bending low, 
7 



98 Poems and Fragments. 

Caught whispered words : 
"I go to him, he shall no more return to me;" 
And then, and thus her prayer was answered. 

The aged pastor rose from out his place 
And, with a simple, trusting faith, 
Asked God to bind anew the broken hearts, 
And sanctify to all the sad bereavement of the hour. 
While he read an old, familiar h\'mn, 
He spoke of those who, not long since 
Had joined with them in praise. 
As listening now to songs of the redeemed. 
His text, " Lovely in life, in death divided not," 
Might have been written for the time and place. 

A backward look o'er three decades 
Brought to the pastor's mind 
Two children, full of life and beauty, 
Tripping through tangled forest maze. 
Or playing in the shadow of the orchard trees. 
Or, hand in hand, 
With dinner basket on their way to school. 
And thus the sunny hours of childhood, 
As free from care as drifting cloud, went b\\ 



The Double Funeral. 99 

Later they grew more thoughtful, 
As God revealed his will, 
The sacrifice of Christ the son. 

Their duty to obey the call, 
"My son, my daughter, give to me thine heart." 
They tarried not, but gladly }'ielded. 
Giving youth, and time, and talents, 
Hoping thus to honor God. 
And then their lives took on new beauties, 
As they went forth among the poor, afflicted ones of 
earth, 
With needed gifts and cheery words, 
Until their names were almost held in reverence 
In the lowly homes they strove to brighten. 

Still another memory was recalled, 
Of how a joyous multitude 
Had wandered out from the old home 
One bright Spring day ; 
And some were clad in snowy robes and flowing veils, 

with tiny lilies wreathed, 
And, under the old oaks, marriage vows were spoken. 
And thus the brother and the sister 



I oo Poems and Fragments. 

Left their childhood and their youth behind, 

And entered on the untried path ; 

While faith and hope, attendant angels, spoke of pleas- 
ant shades, 

And cooling streams, and quiet resting places all along 
the way. 

Or if, perchance, the shadows 

Might sometimes cross their path. 
And the sweet waters be made bitter to the taste. 
And storms should come to them, instead of brightness, 
They would be strong, for each would help the other 

Until the path was trodden o'er, 
And they should rest together at the last. 
Brief were the old man's words. 

Until he reached the final clause, 
" In death divided not." 
Then he aroused himself, 

As though he too stood by the valley ; 

Saw the shadows lift themselves, 

Looked o'er the narrow stream, 
And glanced within the gates that stood ajar, 
Seeming to see the forms that now we mourned. 



The Double Funeral. lor 

He told with burning words, how through eternal years 

These united hearts would hold sweet converse, 

As the glories which were shadowed to them now - 

Would be revealed in fuller depths, 

As added years of immortality 
Should bring to them a clearer vision 
And more perfect knowledge of God's wondrous plans. 

We laid them down, beneath the spreading oaks, 
Where they had stood one bright day in the past, 

Surrounded by the friends they loved the best. 
To-day the same dear forms were found above their 
grave. 
Smiles were replaced by tears ; 
Instead of bridal robes were mourning garbs ; 
In place of whispered prophecies 

Of long and happy years on earth, 
We heard of life eternal, and the fairer land. 
A broad white marble slab 
Is placed above them. 
And the passer-by may read the chiseled words, 
"Lovely in life, in death divided not." 



Poems and Fragments. 



liines to a l>eiijfotIil. 

f DAFFODIL, thou bright Sprnig flower, 
Blooming under cold gray skies, 
'^ It almost seems as if the raw Spring winds 
Would drive thee back to thy warm Winter's nest, 

Where last year's sunbeams found thee; 
And in the long cold Winter days. 
Wrought wondrous changes in thy homely bulb, 

And sent thee forth in gorgeous dress, 
A prophecy of sunny skies, and balmy air, 

And troops of other flowers that charm as well. 

But lack thy courage, yellow daffodil. 



licngint^s for^ 5f oniE. 

;T was midnight of Friday, and we were to wait two 
long hours — a weary waiting for tired travelers. 
There was a good deal of uneasiness among them, 
for two or three parties were to sail if they could make 



Loa'ginCtS for Home. 103 

the connection by one or another of the Hnes of Sat- 
urday steamers. 

Among them an old man, who must have reached 
his threescore years and ten, was especially restless. 
He walked with slow and trembling steps back and 
forth, leaning upon his staff, inquiring now and then 
the time of night, how soon the train would be due, 
and would they reach their destination in season. A 
young man, his traveling companion, evidently a rela- 
tive, answered his questions, kindly trying to reassure 
him. 

From him we learned that the aged man was home- 
sick. Many 3^ears before he had left his father's cot- 
tage on the banks of the river Trent, in the north of 
England, and coming to America had found a home in 
a distant State. He had been abundantl}^ prospered, 
had sons and daughters settled near, but since the death 
of his wife a spirit of unrest had come upon him, a 
longing that would not be put down, to see the home 
of his youth. He talked of it by day and dreamed of 
it by night, and at last resolved to make the journey; 
to look again upon his native fields, the orchards, and 
the river, the graves of his parent.s, and the dear old 



I04 Poems and Fragments. 

roof under which he slept in childhood, thinking to re- 
turn in peace to his children, to die, and be buried in 
the land of his adoption. It hardly seemed as if his 
hopes would be realized — so feeble he was — but should 
his life be spared to look upon the old familiar scenes 
he might be satisfied to go from there to the better 
land, where age and weariness are unknown, where in 
the enjoyment of perpetual youth he might dwell with 
the dear kindred from beyond the broad ocean, who 
would finally be gathered with those who slumbered in 
the old burial places, in final and happy reunion. 

Another face interested me, the face of a pale tired- 
looking woman, who seemed absorbed in the care of 
her two young daughters. 

She had a hungry, yearning look, as if something 
was lost out of her life. She was dressed plainly, 
almost shabbily, and the garments of her children 
showed rigid economy. 

Through a little attention to the children I suc- 
ceeded in winning the confidence of the mother. She 
told me of the long voyage she was to take back to 
the "dear father-land;" of the home she had left be- 
yond the Mississippi; how she had gone there with her 



LoNG/i\GS FOR Home. 105 

husband in the morning of their married life with hopes 
of acquiring a competence; how through all the years 
her husband had toiled hopefully, amid sickness and 
reverses and manifold discouragements; how at the last 
her health was broken, and of her longing for a sight 
of the dear old father and mother, until it seemed as 
if she would die if her wish was denied. She told me 
further that the scanty purse would not permit them 
all to go, and that the unselfish husband had stayed to 
take care of their little home. She tried to describe 
her parents as they looked twelve years ago when she 
left them, and the quaint little house, their home, and 
the stream, and the mill, and the little church, until it 
seemed to me like an old memory revived. 

As we again took our places in the car, and sped 
toward the great ocean, my thoughts followed the 
brave little woman through her long joiirney, .saw the 
greeting from the dear friends who received her almost 
as from the dead, realized how strength must come 
back to her slight form through the tender ministry of 
a "mother's love;" and I thought, too, of the time, a 
few months hence, when she would return to her pa- 
tient, self-sacrificing husband, with added lov^e, born of 



io6 Poems and Fragments. 

his tender care for her, with the health and beauty of 
her girlhood restored, and my heart was lifted to the 
home of the finally faithful, where every longing will 
be satisfied, "and God shall wipe away all tears from 
their eyes, and there shall be no more death, neither 
sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more 
pain, for the former things are passed away." 



BOOK I have, well worn and soiled, 'tis true, 
But dearer far to me 
Than massive libraries of earthly love. 
For it is hallowed by the touch 
Of fingers long since crumbled into dust. 

Doubly precious are its truths. 
As I remember that the eyes that smiled in mine. 

In childhood days. 
Have scanned its pages o'er and o'er. 

The story fresh to-day as when first penned. 
About creation's morn, the birth of centuries, 



Mv Fa ther -s Bible. i 07 

The wondrous work wrought by God's hand, 
When first fi-om chaos earth was made, 
And clothed with grace and beauty, 
While its heart was stored with treasures 
That would bless all future time. 
It tells, besides, 
How God made day and night, 
And of the lights he placed on high, 
Ordained in such grand fashion, 
That as we try to comprehend their vastness, 
And find the sources of the light and heat. 

We lose ourselves as truly 
As if we tried by power of thought 
To fathom the unmeasured life of God. 
In this old book we also read 
That man was formed in God's own image, 
And placed in Eden bowers, 

And to him given 
All beautiful and pleasant things, 
Save one, the tree of which God said, 
"If thou dost eat, most surely thou shalt die." 

But poor, weak man, 
Forgetful of the god-like gift implanted in his heart,. 



lo8 FOEMS AXD FRAGMEXTS. 

Yielded to baser thought, 
And ate of the forbidden fruit, 
And in disgrace was driven forth to labor and to death. 
We read that ages canne and went. 

And nations multiplied. 
And sin stalked o'er the earth, 
While death came with its blight to every home; 
And how God's heart at last was softened 

Toward his creatures. 
And that with helpful plan he came to earth, 
And in the mount, whose brow was hidden in the 
cloud. 
Made his abode, and framed his laws, 
And through his chosen servant 

Gave them to a gathered multitude, 
Who, if obedient, should have his help and aid 

To find the rest they sought. 
Again we turn the leaves of this old book. 
And read of one, a youthful shepherd, 

Who communed with God, as with a friend, 
Studying the m}-stery of the sky o'erhead, his roof by 
day and night, 
As he went forth o'er the green earth, 



My Fa ther 's Bible. 109 

Leading his flocks from sunny pastures on the mountain 
side, 
To grassy vales and cooling streams beneath, 
And then again to loftier heights, chanting in noble 
strains 
Of him who made his chariot of a cloud. 
O, how his lofty words comfort our hearts; 
For we may know that if we live as David did 
Upon the mountain top, we, too, shall hear the words 
of God, 
And gladly lift our voices in his praise. 
Later, the prophets came; 
A half a score or more, like sons of Anak in strength 

and power, 

Yet with cleared vision, and stronger mental grasp, 

Which gave such knowledge of the good in store 

That made it seem as if they shared 

The sweet counsels of the Holy One. 

How grand their faith as they proclaimed 
The future glory of the Church, o'er which the Father 

• and the Son 
Were watching with such lofty purpose, that man. 
Unless his eyes were touched by power divine 



no Poems AND Fragments. 

Could scarce conceive. 
Still other centuries were born and died, 

And God still lived ; 
The sun and moon obeyed his high behest, 

And then the sweet old chapters tell, 
How one, who heard the morning stars 
When first the}' sang. 

Who since had dwelt in heavenly clime. 
Came freely down to earth, dwelling in low estate, 
And humble way, and mingled with his fellow-men, 

And healed their sick, and gave them bread, 
Gave vision to the blind, and brought to life the dead; 

And at the last by yielding life itself. 
Made plain the way, by which all men 

Might find eternal life. 
And how our hearts exult as other pages tell, 

How he, the Son of God, 

Conquered the grave and death, 
Passing as we must pass through gates of flesh. 
Received as we may be through privilege he bought 

To life eternal unalloyed by sin. 

And so each leaf of the old book is dear, 
From the first page yellow A\'ith time. 



Here and There. i i i 

On which is traced a name 
Long since exchanged for grander title, 

Such as angels use, 
Until we reach the closing chapter, 

Telling of the "city," of whose glory- 
Heart can not conceive, a home prepared 

And made at fearful cost ; 
A heritage for those who come with robes made white, 
And hearts made pure, through the shed blood of 

Christ, 
To claim the royal gifts, home, life eternal, rest, and 
peace. 



5f EijE anri M]ei]P. 

E are drifting toward the Eden, 
Over on the other shore. 
Clouds and darkness are about us 
There, no clouds for evermore. 

Here, we're tossed upon life's billows; 
There, we '11 rest without a f?ar. 



Poems and Fragments. 

Here, we sorrow for lost treasures; 
There, each treasure will be near. 

Now we mourn for joys departed, 
In our blindness and our pain. 

Hardly thinking that the Savior 
Can restore them all again. 

In that home beyond the river. 

Where the good and pure have flown, 
We shall have such glad reunions, 

Close beside the Father's throne. 

Then our "light afflictions" ended. 
Nothing more to dread or fear. 

Loving eyes, and loving hand-clasps, 
The dear Savior ever near. 

Rest, my soul, in patience waiting, 
The glad hour is just at hand, 

When the welcome, "Come up higher," 
Bids us to the "promised land." 




An. Old-Tims Memcrj 



A Memory. 113 



^ jV^emoriy n\ tr]P OIcIeu Mime. 

i|N a hill-top, in the east land, 
Spreading west, and south, and northward, 
Spreading wide its lovely pastures. 
And its meadows green and fragrant, 
Far fronn distant town or city, 
Lay a homestead clothed in beaut}' ; 
With its orchards fair to look at, 
And its ripe fruits sweet to taste of, 
Apples, pears, and golden peaches, 
Rich and spic}', as the nectar 
Quaffed by gods in the days olden. 
All the hedges draped and vine-clad, 
Home of bird and haunt of squirrel ; 
And the graceful elms and maples. 
With their wealth of leaves and branches, 
Sheltered many a feathered songster. 
Who poured forth such perfect music 
That the ear was charmed to listen, 
And the heart was lifted higher. 



114 Poems AND Fragments. 

By the blending of their voices. 
Here and there the cattle rested 
'Neath the overhanging branches, 
Or, along the murmuring streamlet, 
Nipped the blossoms of the clover ; 
While the lambs, with nimble footsteps, 
Skipped, and ran, and played together. 
Clothed they were in soft, white raiment, 
Pure and white as driven snow-flakes, 
Emblem of the Lamb once offered 
For the sins of all the nations. 

Nestled down in this Arcadia 
Was a plain and homely cottage, 
Built of logs, and chinked with plaster; 
And, about the eaves and corners, 
Climbed the hop-vine and the creeper ; 
And the pretty morning-glory 
Wound its tendrils o'er the windows. 
Creeping on around the door-case, 
Smiling in its wealth of beauty, 
At the dawning of the morning, 
Nodding, as the breezes passed it. 
Laden with the early bird song, 



A Memory. 115 

Or the hum of bee or insect. 

Grouped upon the mossy carpet 

Of the smooth and ample door-yard 

Were the roses, red and royal ; 

Damask roses, bright and royal, 

As when sunlight, toward the evening, 

Decks the west in colors gorgeous. 

The old well, with oaken bucket, 
With its mossy curb and well-sweep, 
With its pure and cooling waters, 
Sweet and pure refreshing waters, 
Stood within an easy distance 
From the little homely cottage. 
In and out, within the doorway, 
To the well, and to the garden — 
Where the green corn shook its tassels, 
Where the peas and young potatoes, 
Where the camomile and sage-bed. 
And the rue and bitter wormwood. 
Side by side grew close together, 
Went the mistress of the cottage, 
Smiling at the gorgeous flowers, 
Brilliant poppies and nasturtions, 



ii6 Forms AND Fragments. 

Marigolds and flaming sunflowers — 
Gathering now and then sweet clover, 
A few rosebuds and some violets ; 
And she tied them up with grasses, 
As she hastened to the corner 
Where were tangled berry bushes. 
Soon her little basket filling 
With black-caps and scarlet berries, 
Back she went along the border. 
Past the plum-trees richly laden 
With their fruit, both brown and golden- 
Fruit from trees she brought from Jersey, 
In the years when loving husband 
Walked beside her, bearing burdens, 
Ere the sod grew green above him. 
As she pauses at the door-stone. 
Where the latch-string hangs inviting. 
We accept her kindly greeting, 
Pass with her into the door-way. 
At her bidding take the large chair — 
Brought from England in the old-time — 
With its high back brightly polished. 
Smooth and glossy like a mirror, 



A Memory. 117 

Heir-loom in that cottage humble. 
Then Katrina, the home-mother, 
Placed the berries on the dresser — 
On the quaint and shining dresser — 
By the row of pewter platters, 
Bright as moonbeams on the waters, 
Or the silver spoons beside them, 
Were the platters of the housewife. 
Then she took the bunch of flowers 
Tied with grasses from the basket, 
Placed them in a vase of china 
Brought by grandsire o'er the waters ; 
Put the vase upon the bureau, 
By the candlesticks so curious, 
Made of fine brass, tall and stately. 
Then, with deft and nimble fingers. 
She was busy for a season, 
Busy with her household duties. 
Back and forth to cleanly milk-room, 
With its rich and creamy flavor. 
Where were rolls of golden butter. 
And the odor of the pastures 
From the clean white wooden buckets, 



i8 Poems AND Fragments. 

And the milk-jars ranged about her. 

While she worked and sang together 
Glanced my eyes about the cottage, 
Saw the beds piled high like snow-drifts; 
Saw the curtains hung about them, 
Made of chintz, with bird and flower 
Scattered o'er them, a rare pattern — 
Blue the birds, and blue the flowers, 
Laid upon a pure, white background. 
And the cottage walls were whitewashed, 
And the tiny windows curtained 
With a little snowy curtain, 
Large enough to make an apron 
For a dainty little maiden. 
And, across the room, a carpet. 
Warp of yarn, and rags for filling. 
Striped with red, and green, and yellow, 
Fresh and cheerful, bright to look at. 
Strewn with sand, in dainty patterns, 
Was the white floor just beyond it, 
Sand brought from the great white sand-stone, 
That lay broken in the pasture. 
Then, like work in art mosaic. 



A Memory. 119 

Lay the broad and friendly hearth-stone; 
And the fire-place, wide and roomy, 
With its cheerful fire just kindled, 
Large enough to boil the kettle 
Which sang out its homely welcome. 
And the firelight laughed and shimmered, 
Climbed the chimney to the old crane ; 
Threw its bright light o'er the andirons, 
With their queer and grotesque moldings ; 
Laughed and chattered as the smoke-cloud, 
Wreathed in masses, climbed the chimney, 
Seeking home with air and sunlight. 

Then Katrina sat beside me, 
Smoothed her brow and coiled her dark hair, 
Fastened it with stately shell-comb ; 
Smoothed her dress of home-spun linen, 
Placed o'er all a snowy apron 
Made of flax of her own spinning ; 
Round her neck a dainty kerchief, 
Gift of loved and absent brother. 
Then she told me of her home life ; 
Of the dear one long since buried ; 
Of her sons so good and tender; 



Forms and Fragments. 

Of her daughters, one a widow ; 
And her dear old gray-haired mother, 
Whose years numbered many a decade. 
Then, with reverence, she mentioned 
The dear friend, the Elder Brother, 
Who had always stood beside her ; 
Who had always smoothed her pathway 
Who had kept her feet from falling, 
And upheld her heart from fainting. 
And she told me of her purpose. 
If her years were few or many, 
To rely upon his goodness. 
Trust his promises forever, 
Though her days be few or many. 
And I loved the good Katrina; 
And bethought me of the priestess. 
And the oracles of old days, 
To whom messengers from all lands, 
Came to get inspired answers. 
And I knew this loving daughter. 
Faithful wife, and tender mother, 
Was a priestess, was inspired ; 
Did her life-work well and nobly, 



A Sermon on Canvas. i 

Would be crowned and would be honored — 
Here on earth by those who love her, 
And in heaven a crown more precious 
Than the diadem of priestess 
Would bedeck her brow immortal. 



5^ ^Ei|mon on 6aiiYas. 

WpfHE afternoon was warm, hardly a breath of air was 
^M stirring; the room where I was writing seemed 
"^ close, although the windows were open and the 
door stood ajar. 

I began to feel conscious of weariness ; m)^ brain did 
not respond to the promptings of my will, and my 
hands moved unwillingly over the paper. I looked out 
through the open windows, hoping to get inspiration 
from the lovely view that opened out before me — of 
woods, and lake, harvest fields, and orchards, with their 
wealth of fruitage ; but they all looked sleepy and warm 
and dusty. 

Even the busy bees seemed less busy than usual, 



122 Poems and Fragments. 

and the flies were droning lazily about. All nature 
seemed in sympathy, and I could not resist the influ- 
ence; and, leaning back in my easy-chair, yielded to 
the spirit of the hour. Glancing up after a few mo- 
ments, my eyes rested upon a beautiful picture, a gift 
from a dear friend. It was a quiet landscape, done in 
oil and tastefully framed. 

I had always admired it, and at times had felt its 
soothing influence, but to-day it had a new strange 
power over me. 

In the foreground was a moss-grown log ; it was 
such a log as I had used for a seat many a time when, 
as a child, I explored the forest depths. Close beside 
it was a grassy mound that sloped away to a border 
of little trees and shrubs, and I knew the busy water 
laved their roots, although it was hidden from my sight 
by the dense foliage. 

And so I followed along the pretty stream, a child 
again, sailing my little boats, or wading out into the 
cool waters to pick up the white pebbles, watching 
the little minnows as they darted about, glad and happy. 

By and by the stream broadened, and at length 
gave itself, with song and laughter, into the bosom of 



A Sermon on Canvas. 



123 



a little lake, whose waters, smooth and clear, mirrored 
surrounding objects. 

It was a lovely view, the crystal lake framed in 
by trees, and rocks, dells, and waterfalls, and towering 
mountains, whose tops were flooded with golden sun- 
light, while here and there the drifting rays glorified 
branch, or tree, or flower. And so I wandered on, 
climbing mossy banks, or resting in shaded nooks ; drink- 
ing from gurgling fountains, half hidden by ferns and 
wildwood grasses, or refreshing myself with the juicy 
berries; and I said truly, "Books in the running brooks, 
sermons in stones, and good in every thing." 

But the mountains in the background had for me 
the greater charm, as they lifted themselves above and 
beyond, each higher than the last, growing more attract- 
ive as the distance seemed greater, until at last I 
thought they might really be the "Delectable Mount- 
ains," and that the "city whose builder and maker is 
God " was just beyond. And so the warm afternoon 
slipped away, and I found myself rested and refreshed 
by this " Sermon on Canvas," for which an appropriate 
text might have been, "The works of the Lord are 
great." 



124 Poems AND Fragments. 



^ 6^ilistmas ^oem. 

|N thought we wander back through eighteen cen- 
turies, 
And find ourselves on Ephrath's height, 
O'erlooking the Judean hills and vales. 
The city, now called the house of bread, 
Builded by Israel's sweet singer. 
Is placed upon its brow ; 
While all about are olive groves and vineyards rare, 
And just beyond are fiaiitful vales. 
And grassy slopes, 
Where flocks and herds of the Judean shepherds 
Find green pastures. 

Through these same valleys, 
And along the base of loftier hills, 
A little farther on, the youthful David 
Kept his sheep in years long past. 
And here the wondrous prayers 
And psalms of praise were written. 
While he walked and talked with God ; 

But in this crowning year, 





The Ann-unciation oi the Angel. 



A Christmas Poem. 125 

When God's great plan to save the world 

Should be complete, 
Not one, but many shepherds lead their flocks 
Beside cool springs, or to the shaded dells, 
For food and rest. 

They love their work, for even the air 

Is filled with notes of joy, 
And blade of grass, and rock, and rill. 
Find each a voice, by which to utter thanks. 
The shepherds often speak of Christ, 

The promised one. 
And wonder if the prophet's words will soon come true ; 
When he, the child of hope, 
The wonderful, the mighty God, the Prince of peace» 

Would come to reign. 
And so abounding is their faith, 
That from each heart the cry is echoed back, 

"The Lord doth reign! Let earth rejoice!" 

Night spreads its mantle o'er the land. 
The flocks, obedient to their leaders' call, 

Are safe within the fold. 
Each shepherd seeks his favorite resting place, 



126 Poems and Fragments. 

Where he may watch and wait for break of day, 

Communing much with God, 
Or speaking of the ways by which he led 
His chosen ones in other years. 

Suddenlx' from out the darkness 

Comes an angel of the Lord, 
And all about the angel is the glory 
Like that which rested on the mount, 
When God was there to speak to Israel's host. 

So bright the heavenly vision, 
That the shepherds feared and trembled, 
Until the angel speaks. 
" Fear not," he said, 
"I bring you tidings of great joy, 
For unto you is born, this day, in David's town, 

A Savior, w'hich is Christ the Lord!" 
And then a host from out the courts of heaven. 

With one voice, sang the chorus, 
Which every nation, tongue, and tribe shall oft repeat, 
Until from pole to pole, and shore to shore. 
The glad harmonious echo shall resound, 
"Glory to God on high! Peace be on earth! 
Good will to man !" 



The Ho ur of Pra yer. i 2 7 



M'r]E if oui] n\ ^i^ayer. 



WRITTEN AT THE HOUR SET APART FOR PRAYER FOR THK CONVERSION OF 
HEATHEN WOMEN. 



JT is the hour of p 
tian 



rayer, and many an earnest Chris- 



■^ Now hastens to the quiet place where God is found, 
To ask that he would save and bless the multitude 
Who know him not — 
A wondrous throng of zealous workers, 
Who have sought and found the way of life ; 
And, knowing that it is a path of peace, 
They can not rest 
Until the dark-skinned wives and mothers, 
Dwelling in lands beyond the sea. 
Shall also find the Savior, who for them 
Gave up his precious life. 

How each heart throbs with thankfulness 

For Bibles, and for Christian homes, 
For faithful teachers, and for all the helps 

Which we, a favored nation, have 

To aid us in the heavenward way. 



128 Poems AND Fragments. 

And while we tell the Savior all our wants 

The memory of many a prayer, 
Offered perhaps with trembling lips and flowing tears. 
Yet mixed with faith, 
Has brought to us such peace and comfort 
As only Christ can give. 

And so we come in confidence, 
Knowing that if but two or three shall ask aright. 
The promise is to them, 
And when a chorus of many voices 
Join in this most sacreci hour 
To ask the precious boon, that all for whom Christ died 
Might hear his voice and seek his face, 
We dare not doubt but God will hear; 
And so we come and ask, 
That Thine inheritance may spread, 
Until the heathen tribes are gathered 

To the knowledge of the truth. 

May thy possessions reach to distant fields, 
And may all forms of idol worship be destroyed, 
And, in its place, a knowledge 
Of thy law, thy love, and the great truths 



The Ho ur of Pra yer. 



129 



That are the outgrowth of thine own shed blood, ' 
Shall form a center, 

Round which the nations who have dwelt 

In darkness and in shadow 

Shall rally to the light and glory 
Which the Sun of righteousness, alone, imparts. 

And may we further ask, 
That the dear sisters scattered far and near, 
O'er this great mission field. 
As they come up, a mighty host, 
May so besiege a throne of grace. 
With faith persistent and united, 
That thou wilt hear? 
And, as when Daniel plead with thee at evening's hour. 

An angel came to him and said, 
"Thy supplication has been heard, and the command- 
ment has gone forth, 

For thou art well beloved," 
So may this praying band be strengthened by thy words, 
And made more steadfast in the truth 
That all the world shall be subdued to thee. 
9 



130 Poems and Fragments. 

^J 

IIHE marvelous care of the Father, 
To those who abide in his love, 
The pity he cheerfully giveth, 

Had its birth in the kingdom above. 

If sickness falls on such as fear him, 

How gladly he comforteth them, 
If one he has chosen has fallen, 

He raiseth him up again. 
And if one offend in his weakness, 

And sorrow for what he has done, 
If he comes to the Lord in submission, 

He '11 receive the penitent one. 

And should one be wronged by another, 

The promise is certainly made, 
That the unlawful bonds shall be broken, 

If he come to the Lord for aid. 
And 'tis thus with every trial. 

That's permitted on us to fall. 
For he pitieth them that fear him. 

His protection is over all. 



Mother OF Abraham Lincoln. 131 



]If!|E jV[ot!|Eii 0^ ^fii:[a!{am tiincnln. 

REMOVAL FROM THE OLD HOME, DEATH, BURIAL, 
AND LATER FUNERAL SERVICES. 



HOUSEHOLD group had left their early home ; 
O'er hill and dale, through forest shade they roamed, 
And found themselves among strange scenes alone. 

They built a cottage on the prairie wide, 
And planted vines its loneliness to hide, 
Trying to feel they would be satisfied. 

Neighbors were few, and lived so far away 
That, in their loneliness, they oft did say 
" We have not seen a human face to-da)^. " 

Two years had passed away, and, in that time, 
A few had sought and found the favored clime, 
And pitched their tents where woodland flowers twine. 

Disease had followed in their train ; 

The mother lay prostrate on couch of pain, 

'Twas feared she ne'er would rise ag-ain. 



132 Poems and Fragments. 

Her heart more tender grew each day, 
She felt how brief her earthly stay, 
And spoke quite often of the holier way. 

The son beloved, her special care, 
Who largely in her thoughts did share, 
Oft listened to her evening prayer 

That in his youth he might begin 
To shun the paths of guilt and sin 
And strive eternal life to win. 

The grateful son read words of life, 
Of freedom from the toil and strife, — 
And then she died, the cherished wife. 

A few friends came ; her grave was made 
'Neath forest trees, under whose shade 
Sweet flowers bloomed, soft breezes played. 

The little home was left forlorn. 

The hands that once its walls adorned 

Were folded close that Summer morn. 

But, when the evening shadows fell, 
The sorrowing ones used oft to tell 
Of virtues they remembered well. 



Mo THEN OF Abraham Lincoln. 

They mourned above her tomb unblessed 
By Gospel sermon, song of rest, 
And wondered if the one loved best 

Would come and speak above her grave 

Of final rest, God's power to save, 

Of Christ, the precious gift the Father gave. 

Time sped away ; the son had penned 
A letter, which he planned to send 
To Pastor Elken, the mother's friend. 

For many a day the sun had come and gone, 
And anxious thoughts came to the loving son — 
The way was long, the pastor might not come. 

But, at the twilight hour, one sought 

A shelter in their humble cot. 

And wondered that they knew him not. 

And as his hand they kindly pressed, 
He spoke of her, the truly blessed, 
And of the approaching day of rest 

When he would meet in forest shade 
The friends she loved, from hill and glade, 
Who would gather where her grave was made. 



[33 



134 Forms and Fragments. 

From near and far they hastened there, 
The sorrows of these friends to share, 
And Hsten to the good man's prayer. 

He spoke of her young hfe so pure, 
Of precious truths to her made sure, 
And of God's Word that would endure. 

And many a mourner bowed the head 
Above her green and narrow bed, 
And bitter were the tears they shed. 

At length, the solemn service done, 
Last words spoken o'er the buried one, 
All had gone, except the son. 

Who, while the tears bedewed his face, 

Asked, at the last, to have a place 

Near her he loved through power of grace. 

He vowed his mother's God's to serve, 
And ne'er from duty's call would swerve 
If kingly power his arm would nerve. 

And truthfully he kept his word, 
No sinful thought his bosom stirred, 
Nor evil act of his was heard. 



At the Ferry. 135 

And when at last the nation chose 
That he should stand against her foes 
And tide of evil should oppose, 

He faltered not, but, in that Tiour, 

With shield of faith, God's help his tower, 

Went forth, in majesty of power, 

To break the chains from the oppressed. 
To help earth's lowly ones to rest: 
His home to find among the blest. 



^n 35,^tEiincan at i)\2 5Eimy. 

\NE pleasant September day, while traveling with a 
dear friend by private conveyance, it was our pleas- 
ure to cross, by "ferry," one of the lovely lakes 
for which central New York is justly noted, and, in the 
early afternoon, we found ourselves at the " landing" — 
a picturesque spot,- with its few homes dropped about 
at the foot of high hills, which served as background 
to the pretty scene. 



136 Poems and Fragments. 

Giant trees added to the beauty and gave needful 
shade. Our eyes followed the long stretch of water in 
its graceful undulation, with its sparkle and shimmer, as 
the sun rays touched it here and there, until in the dis- 
tance it was framed in wooded banks or fruitful harvest 
fields. 

The boat was far down on the other shore, and was 
signaled to return. In the mean time a basket of 
grapes, "ripe and I'oyal, " was found, and we feasted in 
the fullest sense, for eye and heart were fed b}- the 
beauty about us. In a little time a carriage approached 
the landing, a roomy, hospitable carriage, and it was 
" full to the brim." 

It seemed to be a family party — consisting of father, 
mother, a maiden sister of the wife, one would think 
from 'the likeness, and a group of round-faced, happy 
children. The plainness of their attire revealed their 
faith, for the ladies wore the quaint Quaker bonnets, 
and plain rich dresses in modest colors. Their faces 
were quiet, restful faces. Smooth and fresh, one could 
not trace the lines of care, and their rich glossy hair did 
not even hint at the approach of age. The husband and 
father was evidentl}' "a good man and true." For his 



At the Ferry. 



37 



broad hat covered a kindly face, and his straight coat 
was not a prophecy of narrow sympathies, as his abun- 
dant care of his household testified. 

We were much interested, especially in the children, 
demure little maidens they were, with not a "kink or 
curl," their rosy faces shaded by close bonnets, their 
childish forms arrayed in plain fitting waists and gath- 
ered skirts, guiltless of gore, tuck, or ruffle. They 
looked glad and happy, and "thee" and "thou" fell 
from their lips as naturally as if they had used the mu- 
sical pronouns for many years. Soon another carriage 
came, and still others, laden with members of the same 
"household of faith," until it seemed if others should 
come, a new element (close communion) might be 
mingled with their lives, if not with their faith. 

They were a companionable people, and explained to 
us that they were returning from a " quarterly meeting," 
held on the opposite side of the lake from their settle- 
ment. They told us of their thrifty homes, of the pros- 
perous school they supported, of their industry and 
almost uniform health, of the success which had crowned 
their efforts as a community, until it almost seemed 
as if the dream of an "Arcadia" had been realized. 



138 Forms AND Fragments. 

The last carriage had reached the "point" just as 
the boat touched the landing, and there was hurry and 
bustle until horses and carriages were safely stowed, 
and the people gathered in congenial groups, and the 
boat was again under motion, -headed for the other 
shore. 

Separated a little from the rest were the young peo- 
ple, and among them a few "boys" from the "out- 
side," who, we were told, were members of their 
school, had come to study the languages under their 
capable teacher; but as we noticed their interest in the 
fair girls, and saw their drifting color at the delicate at- 
tentions paid them by the boys, we fancied they were 
all learning a language sweeter far than Greek or Latin, 
a living language; spoken, not by tongue alone, but 
glance and touch are its interpreters. 

Among the pleasant things that were drifting to me 
through all that pleasant day, I was conscious at last 
of another element, a little feeling of discomfort, for, 
although not given to "frizzes or flounces," yet my 
traveling dress, so tasteful in the morning, began to 
seem elaborate in contrast with the stately plainness of 
my fellow-travelers, and the simple flower on my hat 



At the Ferry. 139 

took on large proportions. The words I had often 
read, about the " ornament of a meek and quiet spirit," 
came knocking at the door of memory, and, as an aid in 
dismissing the thought, I addressed myself to a comely 
woman, referring to her children and the varied duties 
of life, speaking at last of her apparent health and 
freshness, to which she replied it was owing largely to 
her freedom from the thralldom of fashion in dress, and 
quite unconsciously gave me a little sermon on the sub- 
ject of which I had been thinking. Our trip was nearly 
ended and my convictions were stifled for the time. 

As the shadows lengthened we reached the harbor, 
and, hastening arrangements, were soon seated in the 
carriage, listening to the kind farewells of our Quaker 
friends, whose homes were in another direction from 
our own destination. Among the September days we 
have placed this pleasant memory of the afternoon at 
the ferry. 



140 Poems and Fragments. 



ffi!l0 ^ailly 6allea. 

-OR two short years 

Our hearts were gladdened 
By the presence of our Httle son. 
In memory he lingers with us still. 
The glow of health is on his cheek, 
His eyes are brilliant with the light of happy childhood, 
While his busy little feet 
Go with me in my daily rounds; 
His voice, so full of music, lingers in my ear, 
And fills me with a sort of quiet joy 

As I remember 
All his childish thoughts, 
And wants so sweetly told. 
Again, I see him wrestling with disease. 

His fevered cheek and labored breath 
Betoken intense pain. 
Dear friends come to his side with outstretched hands 
And ready sympathy — 
Parents so love their only son, 
That they would barter years of life 



The Early Called. 141 

To bring him rest again. 
An only sister, who has cared for him 
Through all his tender years, 
Weeps such agonizing tears 
As might almost recall the dead to life. 
But all in vain. The Father claims his own, 
And we must yield him up. 

Morn dawns, but brings no ray of hope ; 
The little feet are swiftly speeding 
Toward death's river, 
And soon we stand with him upon its banks 
And look across. We see the shore all verdure lined, 
And dotted here and there 
With ever blooming flowers. 

We see the waters — 
Not dark and turbid, as we feared. 
But clear and limpid — 
Rippling over pearls and precious stones, 
And radiant with the light reflected from the Temple 
of our God. 
We may not go with him as we had hopes, 
But linger, watching the little bark, 



142 FoEMS AND Fragments. 

Until we see it moored close by the port of heaven. 
Familiar faces hover near, 
Ready to take, with reverent touch, 
The new-born angel to the Savior's breast, 
The while they chant, "Saved from the power of sin, 

Redeemed through love divine." 
We watch them through the blinding- tears, 
Until the g-olden gates are reached ; 

And as they pass from sight 
We catch such glimpses of the better land. 
That we, too, wish we might be clothed in white, 
"And be accounted worthy." 
Not yet we hear the summons. 
So we place our hands 
Over our aching hearts and whisper, 
' ' He may not come to us, 
But we, through power of grace. 
Will go to him." 



A Cherry Tree in Bloom. 143 



3^ 6!tEi|i|y-ti]EE in jB'Icom. 

iHIS lovely Ma}' day, as the breezes play, 
Through the broad, low, cherry-tree. 
With its brow alight, with the drifting white — 
Can it be that it blooms for me? 

Does it mean to bless with its offering pure, 

Like a poem or song unsung? 
And what is the story 'twould breathe in my ear. 

If it had a voice and a tongue? 

Would it speak of the force, the air and light, 

That feed and nourish its frame. 
The old brown earth, its power and might. 

And the dew, and the soft falling rain? 

Would it tell of the hand that crowned it with flowers, 
And filled them with fragrance rare? 

If any were like them in Eden's bowers, 
They seem so perfect and fair. 

The little bees hum, as like fairies they flit 
Through the clusters so green and white, 



Poems and Fragments. 

And honey from one and another they sip, 
Their Httle hves full of delight. 

The birds come and go in a joyous way, 
As they build up their little nest, 

In the depth of bloom where the shadows play, 
Where the dear little birdlings will rest. 

Is the "tree of life" on the other shore. 
In beauty more perfect or pure? 

We only know this is drifting away. 
While that will forever endure. 



^ai|t!|'s ]V[usic. 

_0 with me to the dark old woods. 
And sit you down beneath that leafy arch, 
Upon the moss-grown log, and listen. 

Ah ! here comes the low-toned zephyr, 

Gently murmuring in your ear. 

And finds an answering echo in your heart, 

As in varied notes it breathes of that great power 




Earth's Music 



EARTH'S Music. 



145 



Which gave it birth. The infinite choir 

Of little songsters tune their sweetest notes, 

All joining in a song of praise, so full of melody, 

So varied, yet so rich and perfect as a whole, 

That if we close our eyes it makes us dream of heaven. 

Each chorus and duet is full of harmony, 

While waving tree-top, and timid flower. 

And grassy spire, keep time to nature's music. 

The murmuring rill 
Gently warbles its soft evening song, 
As musically it ripples by, and then perchance 
The notes are varied, as with swifter motion 
It onward speeds to join the world of waters. 
There's music's richest strain in ocean's roar. 
And in the wildest howlings of the wind, 
And the trumpet tongues of towering mountains. 
For God is speaking through them in his matchless power. 
The voice of God is concentrated power of song, 
And as it rests upon the ear it fills the heart 
With joyous images; then is the time 
To lift our thoughts above in grateful prayer. 
Which will be caught by listening angels. 
And again re-echoed through the arch of heaven. 



[46 



Forms and Fragments. 



The voice of pra}'er is music that vibrates 
From heart to heart, and even Deity is pleased, 
And graciously accepts the incense of the soul. 



Mliicugt] ^citr^ins Qlen. 



E tarry for a ^\'hile 

Within this vestibule of mysteries, 
^^ While o'er our hearts steal premonitions 
Of grandeur unrevealed, 
Which but for handiwork of man 
Would still be shut away from mortal eye. 
Above, arouiKl^ in half circuinfei-ence. 
Are towering walls, Avhich almost meet, 
Save for a narrow rift, 
As if some mighty power had rent the rocks 
From out an angle. 
More than threescore feet above, 
A thread of water dashes downward 

To a pool of unknown depth, 
Where finny tribes disport themselves in glee; 



Through Watkins Glen. 147 

Here nature with daintiest device 
Has frescoed the gray walls 
With ferns and ivy vines and wildwood flowers, 
And wealth of shade, in tree and shrub, 

So varied, yet so perfect, 
That we scarce can leave the restful picture, 
But would gladly take it with us 

Through our lives. 
We tear ourselves away at last, 
Passing in "Glen Alpha's" open door, 

And climb to heights above. 
Resting awhile upon a little bridge 

That spans the chasm. 
Looking back through jagged rocks. 
To deep blue waters, broken into circles 
By the falling column in its quick descent. 
An upward glance 
Reveals a wondrous sight. 
Towering cliffs of dark old rocks. 
Sullen and angular, rise far above each other, 
Till they appear to meet the clouds. 
Just beyond the way seems hedged 
By stony battlements. 



148 Poems and Fragments. 

But glancing round an abrupt turn, 
We find where steps are cut in stone, 

Leading 'neath overhanging clifif, 
Along a narrow gorge, by quiet water-flow. 

Around and overhead are rocks, 

With varied hues and tints, 
With abrupt angles, and eccentric curves, 
As if dame Nature here had robed herself 

In most grotesque array. 

A little farther on a beautiful cascade. 
Irregular, yet full of grace, 
Its waters broken in their fall, 
Dashes along. 

Throwing its foam and spray, 
And still goes laughing on its joyous way. 
Another "fairy cascade" with bound and leap 
Casts itself in trusting way in ' ' Neptune's pool. 
Onward we see the grandeur unsurpassed, 
Of "cavern gorge," 

As through the labyrinth. 

Still under shelving cliffs, 

We pass into a "grotto," damp and dark, 
Shut in behind a watery veil, 



Through Watkins Glen. 



149 



The roar of which is echoed by the rocky walls, 
While outer Hghts 

Touch the transparent stream 
With flecks hke molten silver. 
Backward, a little way, and then 
We climb and rest, and climb again. 
Not daring to look down, until 

The dizzy height is reached. 
From this, our lofty perch, we look 
Through " vista " of quiet pools, and silvery cascades, 
At stately walls, with garnishing of moss. 
Flooded with light from cloudless skies. 

Still above are stately trees. 

Clothed in their varied shades, 
From palest tint, to darkest evergreen. 

Amid whose shimmering leaves 

The sun rays dart and gleam 
In fashion all their own. 
Rested, we climb again, reaching a point 
Where, hid among the nooks and corners, 
We see a vegetation which the tropics claim; 
Or just across, where keen north winds 
Find southern cliffs, 



150 Poems and Fragments. 

Are lichens, from the northern zones. 
A httle higher still, we see 
A dainty cottage, perched upon a natural shelf. 
The view is unsurpassed, "the half can not be told," 
Yet one might find enough of beauty here 

To sweeten half a life. 
We tarry for a while, for man with thought ingenious, 

Has fashioned homes on liberal plan, 
And spread them out on breezy hill-side. 
Or built them high 
Above unmeasured depths. 
Where all the wants of life are met in hospitable way. 
The North and South, the East and West, 
The islands of the sea, contribute 
Of their choice and pleasant things 
To minister to earthly wants. 
Or satisfy the broader need of mind or heart. 
Here, too, we find a strong, 
Yet dainty network o'er the chasm. 

Founded on ledge of rock, so deep 
That thought can hardly reach the place, 
Or touch the time 
Away among the centuries, 



Through Watkins Glen. 151 

When its foundation stones were laid. 

So harmonius the accord 
Of art and nature, 
It almost seems as if the two had met 

In long- communion, to devise. 
And carry out, in loving emulation, 
Plans by which each might reveal 
The other's cliarm. 

But other beauties beckon, 
And we hasten on, through "Sylvan gorge," 

'Neath arches made of forest trees, 

With vine-clad cliffs on either hand. 
A hundred feet above, on jutting crag, 
A rustic arbor stands, close by a gallery of art, 

Where many a treasured gem is hidden. 
Copied by skillful hands from lands remote, or near, 

Fair landscapes painted under eastern skies, 
Or lordly mountain view from western slope, 
So true to nature 

That they seem an echo of her voice. 
Still downward over mossy slopes 

That crown the chasm. 
Feasting our eyes on "Diamond Fall," 



152 Poems and Fragments. 

A lovely picture, 
Framed in forest, rock, and stream, 

We pause beside a group 
Of tiny rapids and cascades, 
That dance, and leap, and frolic, 
Like happy children in their merry moods. 

Just here the great "cathedral" stands. 
The lofty temple wrought in silence most profound. 
Where thousands yearly come on willing pilgrimage. 
Its walls five hundred span in height. 
Its roof the archivault of heaven, 
Reflected in the crystal pools 
That sprinkle its vast floor. 
As if huge pearls were dropped 
Between the great gray stones. 
To catch and multiply the golden sunbeams, 
Or the quiet rays the pale moon gives. 
Or dainty jets from countless hosts of stars, 
That march in stately way across the sky. 

Here, too, is the "baptismal font," 
Whose radiant waters, clear and pure, 
Reveal the smallest object 
Resting in their depths. 



Through Watkins Glen. 153 

And here is music from waterfalls that never tire, 
But with their solemn chant, 

Varied by lighter song, 
Continue through the years their notes of praise. 

We bow our heads. 
Our hearts are filled with awe. 
And it seems fitting we should offer sacrifice; 
And as we stand within this temple, 
Builded, perchance, when time was young, 
And try to comprehend the thought 

That fashioned it, 
Our poor humanity in contrast seems 
Like grain of sand, or water drop from ocean's depths. 

We leave unwillingly, but find a charm 

In watching foaming waters 
Find their way adown a path of sixty feet. 
The "matchless scene" next meets our eye, 
Where beauties manifold combine. 
Here rock and rill 
Shake hands with pools and seething rapids, 
While winding channels and cascades. 
Attune their voices to united harmony, 
And sky and foliage smile down upon 



154 Poems and Fragments. 

The friendly group ; 
The "triple cascades," lovely in union, 
Yet unlike, possess a nameless charm. 

We pass behind the "Rainbow Falls," 

Where myriad drops, and tiny threads 

Of water, falling from shelving rocks above, 

Break into mist and form a veil, 
Through which the sun reveals a rainbow, 

With her paler sister by her side, 
A prophecy of God's unchanging Word. 

We pass through "Shadow Gorge," 
And by the "Emerald Pool," 
Around the "Frowning Cliff," 
And hasten to do homage at the "Pillar,' 
Crowned with beauty. 
So charming is this place 
It seems as if some tasteful hand 

Had gathered treasures choice, 
And brought them to inweave in crevice, 
And o'er columns of solid masonry. 

Our eyes feast next 
Upon the "Artist's Dream," "Arcadia of the Glens, 
Where pools, and angles, light and shade. 



Through Watkins Glen. 155 

And dainty curves, and silver sheen commingle, 
As if choice samples from the other glens 
Were gathered in, 
To decorate this lovely spot. 
We pass the "Pool of Nymphs," where water sprites 
Hold levees in the sunny afternoons ; 
And on with ease to "Glen Facility," 
Whose walls are held in place 
By a great iron bridge, a wondrous work, 
Impressing us with power of mind, 
That bends the hills and lifts the valleys up 
To meet man's will. 
Beyond the bridge, "Glen Horicon," 
With ampitheater, and wooded banks. 
And broken points of land, 
Ending in "Glen Elysium," 
With water, lawn, and grove, 
With cosy nooks, and carpetings of moss. 

And giant trees o'er all. 
Next "Glen Omega," last of all, reveals its charms, 
Three miles away from Alpha's open door. 
Six hundred feet above the entrance way. 
And as we wait and strive 



156 Poems and Fragments. 

In little knowledge, or by power of thought, 
To solve the mystery of the birth and later life 
Of this great marvel of creative power, 
We lose ourselves, and only by flight of fancy 

Can look back through space of time, 
When earth was new, and called complete. 

And think within this secret place 
Might have been left the unused rock and stone- 
Not as a blight on the fair earth — 

For all God's works were good. 
Later, when nature, handmaid of the architect 

That framed the world, 
Had draped the mountains, planted forests wide, 
Sown varied wealth 

O'er the vast plains of earth, 
Dropped ferns and mosses in her vales. 

And by the river's brink — 
For large provision had been made — 
She, too, had overplus of wealth, 
And poured into these nooks and corners 

The unused seeds and shrubs. 
And little roots. 
With thought prophetic of their future life. 



Through Watkins Glen. 157 

The little birds 
Told all the tale to other birds, 
And so from distant points 
They now and then would bring a tiny seed, 

To drop within its depths. 
And as the breezes roamed abroad 
They breathed the secret, 
And the feathery seeds came on their wings, 
And fell on mossy bed, or lodged in rift of rock, 
And grew, and waved in triumph 
At their own success. 
Melted snows, and mountain streams, 
And rills, and drops of dew, 
Listened with curious ear, 
And came at last to see, 
Bringing their pretty offerings. 
On tallest cliffs, the eagles perched, 
To watch the changes wrought from year to year. 
Until at last 
Man dared to scale the dizzy height. 
And seek the lower depths, 
Explore the darkest nooks. 
And bring its hidden beauties forth, 



158 Poems and Fragments. 

Its old-time majesty, perliaps unchanged, 
Yet clothed upon with fresher charm, 
As if the resurrection power 
Had touched and purified. 
And so to-day the tongue of man, and nature's voice, 
Accord with voice of God, 
Who in creation's morn 
Pronounced it "very good." 



ffiflE YoicB o^ many ^atei^s. 

E have heard the voice, the still small voice, 
Of the gentle Summer rain, 
As it watered the earth with refreshing showers, 
Reviving all nature again. 

We have heard the rills, as they wind along 
Through vale, and meadow, and grove. 

And they sparkle and laugh as they sing their song, 
Their beautiful song of love. 

We have heard the voice of the waterfall, 
As it dashes adown the hill, 



The Voice of Many Waters. 159 

And it almost seemed it might have said, 
I will hasten to do thy will. 

We have seen the river as it walks in pride 
On its way toward the ocean broad ; 

With its voice it praises the hand that guides, 
'Tis the wonderful hand of God. 

And the beautiful lake, with its border of green, 

With a cloudless sky o'erhead, 
Reflected in waves of silvery sheen, 

In the depths of its crystal bed, 

Seem to speak of the river of life above. 
Making glad the home of the pure. 

Where provision is made for one and for all 

Who in patience and faith shall endure. 

We have heard the roar of the ocean grand, 
Like the voice from Sinai's height, 

And it tells of One holding the waves in his hands, 
Who dwelleth forever in light. 



i6o Poems AND Fragments. 



E love the way-side flowers, 

For they are free to all ; 
The simple daisies, with their yellow hearts and 
pearly fringe, 
Were made by the same hand that fashioned rare 
exotics. 
And lift themselves as gracefully 
To greet the passer-by, as do their prouder sisters. 
And one might almost think the buttercups, so glossy 
and so golden, 
Were fed and nourished at the springs 

That send the sunshine forth. 
The clover, red and white, is strewn about, 
Holding its hidden sweets on hospitable thought intent, 
For busy bees unchided come and go, 

Carrying their store of Winter food. 
Along the bank the creeping blackberry 

Winds among the grass. 
Looking as if its star-shaped blooms 

Had been in careless fashion dropped. 



Wa ys/de Fl o wers. 1 6 1 

While they cling close to earth, as bashful children 
That hold fast the mother's hand. 
Gay dandelions 
Gather in groups to greet the passer-by with their 
coquettish smile, 
And still seem happy, as their early beauty fades, 
To wear their silver locks, a type of riper age. 
The rare sweet-brier, hiding among the nooks and 
corners. 
Has its word of love and sympathy, 
For, as we look upon its modest face, 
And breathe the grateful incense. 
It seems like tender touch of old-time friend, 
Bringing sweet memories of childhood days. 
And so we love the wayside flowers. 
Which, like the air we breathe, 
Or the pure waters from the mountain-stream, 
Bless rich and poor alike. 



-1 62 Poems and Fragments. 



'So mightily grew the Word of God and prevailed." — 
Acts xix, 20. 

plHE mighty Word, 

Expressive of the thoughts more mighty 
Than the words convey to human ear, — 
For written words are tame 
Beside the thoughts of God toward all his creatures, 
Thoughts which had their birth 
In the great heart of Him 
Who was, and is, and shall forever be ; 
Thoughts of the gift of life eternal 
To his chosen ones, 
Who are thus made to share his immortality, — 
And so his Word, with mercy and with justice fraught, 

Grew and prevailed. 
As tiny oak, by innate strength, turns obstacles aside. 
Pressing its wa}^ through the moist earth, 
Until it revels in the sunshine and the air, 
Still stretching out its arms, 
Gathering fresh power each day, 



The Mighty Word. 163 

Until it towers above its fellows, 
Defying storm and tempest, 
So the Word, rooted and grounded, did prevail. 

The combined forces of the heathen world 
That numbered in its countless hosts 
Emperors, and kings, and hordes of willing devotees, 

With varied forms of idol worship. 
Worship of wood, or stone, beast, bird, or fowl, 
Or sacred waters, could not prevail against the Word 

of God. 
Even those who bowed in adoration to the sun. 
That marvel of creative power, 
Must yield their final homage 
To the Hand that hung it in the heavens. 
And as time passed. 
And the great powers of earth in solemn conclave met, 
And asked the mighty question, "Shall the Word of 
God prevail ? 
His name be honored, and his cross revered?" 
The glad triumphant answer, 
"He the God of nations is," 
Made all his foes to quake and flee away 
To hide themselves ; and so the Word prevailed. 



164 FoEMS AND Fragments. 

Judaism, which for centuries had grown, 
Sustained and strengthened by its old-time rites. 
On whose red altars blood of beasts 
Was freely shed, to atone for sin. 
Arrayed itself against the Word, 
Thus striving to rob God 
Of the dear Son, and of the Holy Ghost ; 
Ignoring union of the great Jehovah 
With the Elder Brother, 
And the Comforter, he promised. 
Yet oft the voices of the three, the blessed trinity. 
Proclaimed the Word, and human hearts thus helped 

and saved, 
Gave honor to the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, 
And so the Word prevailed. 

Next papal power, the "man of sin," of which Paul 
speaks, 
Sought to " change times and laws." 
As ignorance prevailed, and gross corruption. 
Superstition lifted up its hydra-head, 

And image-worship, and relics of the saints, 
And payment of large fees, which found their way 



The Mighty Word. 165 

Into the treasuries of pope and cardinals, 

Who made the homage 
Of their poor dekided victims 

A passport to the heavenly land. 
And though God's Word 
As seed was sown in many a human heart, 
And in due time would grow and bring forth fruit, 
Yet priestly pontiffs, with their councils and decrees, 
The power they claimed to pardon sin, 
And grant protection of the saints, 
Took mighty hold upon the ignorant and weak, 
Who gladly bowed their necks to "Romish yoke." 
But God, the loving Father, kept his own, 
And here and there, through all the earth. 
Were found his true and earnest ones. 
Fearless and faithful workers in the cause of truth. 
And by their efforts many souls were gathered in 

Of such as should be saved. 
And thus God's Word proved far more potent 
Than that "Mystery of Sin," the Church of Rome. 

Among the powers that oppose the Word, 
The human heart presents itself. 



i66 Poems AND Fragments. 

Full of deceit, and evil tempei's, with proud will 

Ignoring God, his power, his Word, 
Scoffing at sacred things ; 
Wrapping itself in pride and much conceit, 

Forgetting that the God they scorn 

Could blast them with a breath, 
And send them down to deeper, darker depths of woe, 

Than their vile hearts had e'er conceived. 
But even here the Word has power. 

The loving invitation, "Come to me," 
The tender touch of hands once pierced, 

The cleansing blood on Calvary spilled. 
Applied to, hearts full of deceit and every deadly thing, 

Can so transform and cleanse, 
That God, well pleased, 
Will take and seal them as his own. 

And thus, through all the centuries, 
Christianity has been the leading power. 
Taking in its train the noblest intellects, 

The science and the art of ages past; 
And in its grand, triumphant, onward way. 

Each power to oppose shall be brought low. 



A Bridge of Years. 167 

Each foe destroyed, God's Word prevail, 
Until the nations, dwelling in most distant climes. 

And in earth's darkest homes, 
Shall know of God, his Son, the Christ who died for all; 

The Holy Ghost, God's messenger of peace 
To such as hear his Word and love his name. 



^IFlGHT years ago to-night they stood, . 
The lover by his chosen bride, 
?^ Within her childhood's home. 

About them were the old familiar scenes 
That almost seemed to her a part of life. 
Dear friends, with saddened brows, were there, 

Yet smiling through their tears, 
Rejoicing in their joy, and with them sympathizing 
In the hopes and fears, that found 
Within their hearts a resting place. 
No anxious thought dwelt in the maiden's heart, 
For well she knew his loyal lips 



1 68 Poems and Fragments. 

Would never promise what the heart refused to yield. 
And he, in restful trust, believed 

Her love and tenderness 
Would smooth and beautify his life. 
Now they had met to consummate 
The vows made in the past. 

Before them stood the man of God, with brow serene. 
His earnest manner and his thrilling voice 
Impressed us in a solemn way, 

As with befitting words 
He made the "twain one flesh," 
Through weal or woe, in life or death ; 
A union recognized by God and angels, 
To be annulled only by the close of time, 
The ending up of years. 

Home voices now no longer lingered on their ears. 
The kind farewells had all been uttered. 
The last look taken at the spot 
Associated with each childish thought and prayer. 
To the young wife that home was very dear, 
For long ago a father's grave was made 
Beneath its shadowy trees ; 



A Bridge of Years. 169 

A widowed mother lingered still ; an only sister, 
Sharer of her thoughts and cares ; 
A brother, well beloved, formed ties as strong as life. 

With tearful eyes and aching heart 
She turned away to seek another home 

With him she loved. 
And hope, with cheery presence, lingered near; 

Beauty was all about them, for earth 
Was radiant with her wealth of charms. 
The low winds murmured in a joyous way ; 
The tall trees breathed a " God speed " as they passed ; 
The rocks, piled high above them, 

Were reminders of the rock 
On which their feet were placed ; 
For well they knew 
Their future was with Him 
" Who doeth all things well." 
The calm blue waters of the peaceful lake 
Spoke with prophetic voice of future rest ; 

And these glad omens were gathered 
In their inmost hearts, to be remembered 
When their prophetic words had all been proved. 



lyo . Poems AND Fragments. 

A little cottage, clothed in green and white, 

Was garnished for their use. 
And, as on near approach, they caught a glimpse, 

It seemed to smile a welcome, 
And as they entered at its opened doors 
The unspoken language of each heart was this, 
"Thy people shall be mine, thy God my God." 

Loving hearts encouraged loving hands 

To beautify this chosen spot, 
Until, at last, the birds mistook it for their home. 
And flowers climbed up and smiled 
Within the windows ; 
And the glad winds 
Went roaming through the rooms. 
Murmuring their approbation. 
They labored diligently, 
And toil's reward was theirs. 
Contentment dwelt within their home. 
And peace, a welcome guest, has ne'er departed. 
Morning and evening from the home altar 
Has risen the sacrifice of grateful hearts 
To him who daily blesses and sustains. 



Moses AT the Bush. 171 

Years come and go, each shorter than the last, 

Each filled to overflowing 
With joyous memories of the past ; 

With present happiness, 
And blissful prospects of the future, 
Where earthly joys, and charms 
That satisfy in time. 
Shall pale beside the brighter home, 
And fuller life they each will share. 



;^[csEs at t^e Bui|ning Bus!i. 

^N Horeb's plain, 
A shepherd, lingering, watched his flocks ; 
And, when the pasturage grew poor. 
He led them back, for fresher food, toward Sinai, 
Which hid its rugged head within the clouds, 
As if to watch their birth, and journeyings through 

space ; 
To learn the secrets of the dew and rain. 
As they were lifted from the depths 



172 



Poems and Fragments. 



To be again returned to bless the earth. 

The path b}^ which the flocks were led 
Had been untrodden hitherto, 

For those who dwelt within the mountain's shadow, 
Called it God's hiding place, 
And out of fear, or reverence, 
Refrained from coming near. 
But Moses, who had dwelt in other lands, 
Until in recent time he journeyed hither, 
And found the land of Midian pleasant to his sight. 
Had found a friend in Jethro, priest and patriarch of 

the land, 
And took his flocks, 

And, in his care for them, had wandered wide. 
Not having heard the rumor that God's voice 
Was sometimes heard 
Echoing from out the mountain depths. 

And Moses tarried with his flocks. 
Perhaps rehearsing all his wondrous past, 
Or thinking of the promises of God, who loved his 

nation, 
That were now in sore distress by reason of their bonds ; 
The hardness of the hearts of those 



Moses a t the B ush. i 7 3 

Who made them drink the bitter waters of their 
servitude; 

Thinking of the God, 

To whom, in smaller measure, he might be akin ; 

For those who cared for Moses in his youth 

Proclaimed him " of a form divine," and of a "gener- 
ous mind." 

And as he waxed strong in the faith — 

With towering mountains pointing to the heavens. 

And God so near — 

He saw a wondrous sight ; 

A bush on fire, yet unconsumed, 

Though leaf and branch were wrapped in flame ; 

And as he thought on near approach 

To solve the wondrous mystery, 

A voice came from the flame, and called him by his 
name, 

And bade him draw not hither, 

And did likewise say : 

' ' Put off thy shoes from off thy feet. 

The place whereon thou standest now is holy ground." 

And still the voice made utterance : 

" I am thv father's God, 



174 Poems and Fragments. 

I hear the cry that comes from out thy nation's heart. 

Their sorrows are my own : 

I come to bring them out of bonds ; 

Thee have I chosen as my instrument 

To lead them to the promised land. 

Do thou have courage, I will send thee to the king 

With large demand for liberty for Israel's host." 

And Moses hid his face, 
And dared not look on God, 

And cried, " Who am I, Lord," and felt so self-abased, 
Too humble for this mighty work. 
And cried again, "O Lord, my Lord! 
I am not eloquent, nor have been in the past, 
Nor since thy words fell on my ears ; 
But I am slow of speech and slow of tongue ; " 
And Moses trembled, as he said, "I pray thee 
Send by hand of him whom thou wilt send." 

And God made answer : 
"Who hath made man's mouth. 

Or who the dumb, or deaf, the seeing, or the blind ? 
/ mil hath sent you, / the Lord. 
Now, therefore, go ; 
I will be with thee, with thy words, 



Moses at the Bush. 175 

And teach thee, as thou goest, what to say; 
And Aaron, whom thou lovest. 
Thy brother, shall go with thee — 

He speaketh well; he cometh forth to meet thee now; 
Speak thou to him, put words into his mouth — 
He shall be mouth to thee, 
And thou shalt be as God to him. 
And take my rod, wherewith thou shalt do signs; 
And go, return to Eg}'pt — the men are dead that 
sought th)^ life." 

So Moses took his wife. 
And took his sons, and took the rod of God, 
And took a blessing from Jethro's lips, 
Who said, "Go thou in peace." 

And Moses went, and met his brother in the mount, 
And kissed him, as he told the words and all the signs 
Commanded of the Lord. 
And then they went, Moses and Aaron, 
To the elders of the tribes. 
And spake the words the Lord had said. 
And did the signs in sight of all the gathered hosts. 
And they believed 
That God had seen them in their darkest hour, 



1 76 Poems and Fragments. 

And heard their cry. 

And all the people wept, and bowed their heads, 

And worshiped Him 

Who spake to Moses from the burning bush. 



"Ask and ye shall receive." 

#1 

(HERE came in my life a Spring-time, 

When the pulses of health ran low. 

And the tired hands were folded, 

The footsteps were weary and slow. 

And my spirit was sad for the dear ones, 
Who each tried to lift a part. 

For the household burdens were heavy — 
Heavier far was the pain at my heart. 

And so I asked the dear Father, 
To send me comfort and rest, 

To watch over and bless the home fold, 
In the way that seemed to him best. 



A Gracious Answer. 177 

I knew he remembered the hhes, 

To clothe them in beauty and grace ; 

And the sparrows worth only a farthing, 
Have in his great heart a place. 

And He, too, most surely has promised, 

Not a hair of our heads shall fall 
To the ground without his knowledge, 

For his love reaches out over all. 

And so as the time went drifting, ^ 
There came to my home one day, 

A friend, beloved and helpful, 

And she came with a purpose to stay 

Till my tired frame grew stronger, 

And the sunken cheeks more bright, 

Till the step should become elastic, 
And the eyes with hope alight. 

And her very step was restful, 

As she moved with a quiet grace, 

Her eyes as blue as the heavens, 

A comforting smile on her face. 



lyS Poems and Fragments. 

And with tender touch she lingered, 
Wherever she most could aid ; 

And the voice of the dear Elder Brother, 
Was the voice she always obeyed. 

And so through all of the Spring-time, 
Like a ministering spirit she went, 

With supplies of grace for daily needs — 
Truly God a helper had sent. 

And when the Summer with bloom and fruit, 
Came to bless our home with its cheer. 

We felt that our friend we could not give up. 
For she seemed each day the more dear. 

And still she tarried, the vintage to glean, 
And place with the Autumn store, 

And health came slowly back to the home,' 
Where sorrow had reigned before. 

And when at last her mission was done, 
More precious to us than fine gold, 

We knew that to her a richer reward. 

Would be meted in measure fourfold. 



The Morning-Glory. 179 



M!iE JV[ci]ning-€fIniiy. 

I REST upon my couch 

And watch the morning-glories 
Twining along the porch. 

Each separate plant seems eager 
To outstrip its neighbor, as it upward climbs, 
Lifting its wealth of bloom to loftier heights ; 

Its heart-shaped leaves are each a study, 
With their wondrous tracery in silence wrought, 
Each unlike the other, 
Yet all of perfect handiwork. 
The tiny tendrils, with graceful curves, 
Reach forth, as if imploring sun and rain, 

And bracing air 
To grant new life and strength to root and stalk. 
Giving each bell-shaped flower its varied hue. 
As if a brush, dipped in the rainbow's surplus wealth, 
Had sprinkled here and there 
Choice bits of color. 
From this dainty bit of nature's workmanship, 
May I this lesson learn. 



i8o FoEMS AND Fragments. 

To climb from day to day, to loftier heights of faith, 
And as each morn fresh beauty meets my eye, 
So may some word or act of mine. 
Shed brightness daily over other lives. 



^n IflEeil Jfolifiay. 

CHILD. 

'HAT would you like best, mother mine. 
This lovely morn in the sweet Spring-time? 
For a fairy whispered to me I might say 
That mother should have M'hat she wanted to-day. 

MOTHER. 

You may tell the fairy I 'd like the best. 
Freedom from care, a day of rest ; 
When the work would move itself along, 
With a gentle tread like a restful song ; 

When the breakfast cloth would be neatly laid, 
And the morning meal by deft fingers made ; 



An Ideal Holiday:. i8r 

When sweeping and dusting were out of sight, 
Not a care would I have this day so bright. 



CHILD. 

And what would you do dear, mother mine, 
If you had a whole day of precious time? 
Would you read, or sing, or visit, or play, 
Through all the long hours of a great long day? 



MOTHER. 

I would take my dear ones and .speed away, 
Where the grasses wave and the breezes play; 
I would walk along 'mid the wildwood flowers, 
And would seek for cool and shady bowers. 

I would gather my arms full of treasures rare 
(For nature has plenty and all may share,) 
Of mosses and ferns and tangles of green, 
As pretty a chaos as ever was seen. 

I 'd weave them in garlands so dainty and neat, 
Or make them in clusters both pretty and sweet, 
Or fashion in bracelets for fair dimpled arms. 
Or girdles of green to enhance youthful charms. 



1 82 Poems and Fragments, 

I 'd find a seat under shadowy leaves, 
Where mosses are piled at the roots of old trees, 
Where the squirrels play in their gayer moods, 
Or gather nuts from the deeper woods. 

I 'd listen to songs of the dear little birds. 

Who chatter and sing in musical words 

Of the brightness in store for them all through the years, 

Their homes and their loves, their hopes and their fears. 

Of green leaves I 'd make a dainty cool cup, 
And fill with ripe berries piled up to the top ; 
They grow in the borders, close by the pure stream. 
Wearing tasty red coats, but their cloaks are dark green. 

The streamlet I 'd follow as it ripples along, 

With its murmur and trill and quaver of song, 

Washing the pebbles and blessing the bloom. 

That o'ershadows the banks, throwing forth rich perfume. 

And so I would linger till setting of sun, 
When long shadows warned me that day was done; 
I would say to my dear ones when the birds seek their rest, 
We '11 hasten aaain to our own home-nest. 



A.v Uninvited Guest. 183 



^n TiJiiinvitEfl Quest. 

ji SEED had fallen away by the kitchen-door; we 
did not know about it until a little plant thrust 
itself forth from the moist earth, and after looking 
about for a few days started out as if to investigate 
more fully. It seemed to be an energetic little thing, 
for in a short time it had found its way across the back 
yard, had climbed up, and was peeping between the 
white pickets, looking, we thought, at the mass of 
inwoven morning-glories, nasturtions, and sweet peas 
that shaded the porch. It was evidently pleased with 
the outlook, for after a little hesitation it climbed 
through and made its way along, not venturing to 
fasten itself to the frail cords that sufficed for the more 
dainty plants, but forming a base to the pretty screen 
that put on new beauties day by day. 

The vine seemed to thrive, and as it had found its 
way in such quiet, unobtrusive fashion, we decided it 
might retain possession for a time at least. 

And so each morning as we gave it friendly greeting 
we saw it had journeyed a little farther, and its green 



184 Poems and Fragments. 

leaves had broadened. Its stalk had taken an added 
strength, and as if to make sure of its footing it had 
thrown out little tendrils here and there that wound 
themselves about the grasses or caught hold of the 
morning-glories with a tenacious grasp as if they did 
not mean to let go again. 

And so it wandered on until it reached the broad 
door stone, looked up into the porch and on into the 
rooms as if speculating about taking possession. We 
watched the result with curious eyes, to find at last, 
that through advice of its kindly neighbors, or by its 
own superior wisdom, it had turned about, taking a 
wide circuit, possibly with the intention of returning 
again to its starting point, leaving, however, two or 
three great golden bell-shaped blossoms as a token of 
gratitude for kindly treatment it had received, or, per- 
haps, as securit}' for rent. We are interested in the 
further movements of our "uninvited guest ;" it has yet 
two or three months in which to pursue its wanderings 
before the Autumnal frosts shall cripple its powers. In 
the mean time its innate strength and unbounded am- 
bition make its possibilities immense; we will try to 
wait patiently for tlieir development. 



The Baptism. 185 



ffiljE Baptism. 

(HE day had waned, 
Long shadows fell aslant the road o'er which we 
passed ; 

A pleasant country road, 
With now and then a mossy bank on either side, 

Inviting to repose. 
And little groves were scattered by the way, 

Among whose shadows one would love to sit. 
Farther on a stately tree, like an untiring sentinel, 
Looked forth o'er hill and dale, o'er distant lake and 
pretty little towns, 
Which, in the distance, seemed asleep, 
While the great hills beyond kept guard above them, 
As a mother guards the slumbers of her little one. 

As we pass the simple, countr}^ homes. 
Little maidens and their sisters, 
Gray-haired sires and tender mothers. 
Hasten along the path we tread. 
Husbands and fathers join the throng. 



1 86 Poems and Fragments. 

With quiet expectation on each face, 
For, at the sunset hour. 
When all have met beside the cooling stream, 
A solemn ordinance, like unto that which Christ 

In Jordan's depths received, 
That he might thus fulfill all righteousness, 
Will be observed. 
We pass along, listening to song of bird. 
To insect voices, and rippling waters. 
Until we reach a limpid pool, 
Roofed by an overhanging tree, festooned with vines. 
Across the stream a sloping hill-side, with foliage 

overhead. 
And underneath are velvet moss and tufted mounds 
Inwrought with scarlet berries. 

Here atid there, in graceful beauty. 
Youth and age are grouped ; 
The bright-eyed girl, with brown or golden tresses, 

And the whitened locks of age, 
Each one intent upon the solemn service of the hour. 

The sun had made 
His royal march across the sky, and lingered now, 
As if to look abroad o'er the fair earth, 



The Baptism. 187 

Which grew and freshened day by day, 
As sunbeams sought the quiet nooks and hiding-places 

Where Mother Nature keeps her treasures, 

And coaxed them forth to Hght and fragrance. 
Now its rays touched vale and hill-top, 

Rested on the shimmering wave, 

And bathed the faces of the waiting throng. 

Anon a gorgeous cavalcade 
Came trooping up from northern skies, 
As if the king of. day had called his hosts together 

For a grand review ; 
Their royal robes of crimson, gold, and purple, 
Mingled with silver sheen, became them well. 

Strange and fantastic was the grouping, 
Horses and chariots there were, and floating banners. 
Whose reflected light was thrown far southward, 
As signals to uncounted hosts 

To join the glittering pageant. 
And one could almost fancy 
That the dainty forms that hurried up from southward 

skies, 
Had wings and harps beneath their tinted robes. 



i88 Poems AND Fragments. 

Perchance had come from neighboring worlds 
To view the scene 

O'er which the angels might rejoice, 
And carry back to other hosts the news, 

"The dead's alive, the lost is found." 

A solemn silence crept o'er all the place, 
Even nature's voices hushed themselves, 
As the pure man ordained of God stepped forth, 
His brow aglow with living light, and prayed 
A simple, fervent prayer that must have reached the 

ear of Him 
Who dwells on high. 
A hymn was sung 

Whose echoes reached across the vale, 
As when the Law was read to Israel's host, 
And borne from Ebal's slopes to fruitful Gerizim. 

A wife and mother, who had vowed to live for Christ, 
And train her children in the living way. 

Walked calmly down the bank, 
And, in the name of Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, 

Was there baptized. 
Next came a maiden, who had sought and found 



The BAPTiSAf. 189 

The "Pearl of Price;" 
And, as the waters laved the yielding form, 

Thoughts of the mother who had gone before, 
Leaving the orphaned one to find the cross 

Without her hand to guide, 
Filled many a heart, and prayers were breathed that she 

might 
Always pray as now: " Father, be thou my Guide; 
In youth, my helper, in maturer years, forsake me not ; 

And, when the hour of death shall come. 

Accept and save by merit of thy Son." 

We bowed our heads for final words of blessing, 
Just as the sun went down behind the western hills ; 
And turned to seek our homes, 

Feeling that Christ in God was honored, 
And that the dove, the Holy Ghost, 
That hovered over Jordan's wave. 

Had been with us, 
And left its impress on our hearts. 



190 Poems and Fragments. 



jVettie. 



% 



MAIDEN beloved in your morning of }'ears, 
I watch you to-day through happy tears, 
As your feet are poised on the threshold of days, 
And you look abroad o'er life's untrodden maze. 

You are all too frail for the battle and strife, 
For friction must come into every life ; 
Your tender heart would sorrow each day, 
For trials are strewn o'er each step of the way. 

But you" charm with your dainty winsome face, 
With your witching ways and baby grace, 
With the tender look to your dark eyes given, 
As if borrowed from out the treasures of heaven. 

There's a rest in the touch of your dimpled hand, 
Like a hallowed touch from the better land ; 
The words that you lisp as they fall on our ear, 
Are like the music that in dreams we hear. 

O my precious treasure, ni)^ white pearl so fair, 
With your gloss}' ringlets of raven hair, 



Nettie. 191 

Could I know that you might always walk by my side, 
I am sure that my heart in peace would abide. 

Your footsteps I 'd watch with tenderest care, 
Each day of your life should be hallowed by prayer. 
My own hands should pluck every thorn from your waj'. 
Should the loving Father permit you to stay. 



maiden beloved of the tender years, 

1 see you again through blinding tears, 
For your weary feet on the threshold stand. 
Of the open door of the heavenly land. 

Your beautiful life is almost o'er, 
You hear the tones from the farther shore; 
Voices like music fall on your ear, 
Heavenly voices which we may not hear. 

Your angel wings are plumed for the flight, 
Your face is veiled in a halo of light ; 
The tender gleam of your wonderful eyes 
Speaks to our hearts of your pleased surprise. 



92 



Poems and Fragments. 



A touch, a caress, our birdling has flown, 
The Savior has come and called for his own ; 
She has left the threshold, the struggle is o'er, 
The angels have closed the open door. 

And now the dear feet will journey along. 
Through pleasant paths in the land of song, 
And the angels who her way shall guide 
Are the friends who before her passed over the tide. 

O fathers and mothers, dear friends that are gone, 
Will you tenderly watch o'er our angel one? 
Will you tell her we love her, and truly will come 
To our mansions and hers in that beautiful home? 

The three little years that she journeyed through time 
Were like silvery streamlets that through Eden twine, 
Bringing freshness and beauty to bank, vale, and flower, 
So blest was our Eden by this transplanted flower. 



Lines. 193 



liillES. 

SUGGESTED BY THE DEATH OF A VOUNG MAN WHILE 
ATTENDING SCHOOL. 

P' LANCING backward through the years, 
A picture rare reveals itself; a home 
Where God is loved and honored, among 
Its brightest ornaments, a darling son. 
Parental hearts beat proudly as they look 
Upon his promise, while his future is 
To them a beacon, shedding light and warmth 
O'er their declining years. 
A loving sister shared his childish sports, 
Grieving when he grieved, and in his joys 
Rejoicing, while without stint they lavished 
Each upon the other a wealth of love. 
Their thoughts and tastes so interwoven, 
Reminding one of oak and clinging vine. 

There came a time 
When thoughts of God, his claims, man's sinfulness, 
God's wondrous love, impressed his heart, and. 
Listening to the "still small voice," he hastened 
13 



194 Poems and Fragments. 

To the cross, and gave himself without 
Reserve to God. 

In all the past no 
Vulgar word had soiled his lips, no mark of 
Sin was on his brow. But now the Savior 
Was his best and dearest friend, and by his 
Side he walked and nothing feared. 
In prime and vigor he went forth 
Where many congregate, who love to drink 
At learning's fount. Ambitious, earnest. 
He girded close his armor, and strove 
To fit himself for life's great warfare. 
Friends rallied to his side, and teachers 
Proudly pointed to the height which he thus 
Early had attained. 

Too soon sad tidings came 
To friends. Disease had fastened on that 
Manly form, and agonized, he prayed 
For home. His friend, one tried and trusted, 
Nursed him tenderly, relieving every want 
With thoughtful care. Parents and sister 
Hastened to his side, with tender touch, 
And all the helps that gold could bring. 



Lines. 

But vain all efforts. 
The prayers and tears, the cries of those 
Who loved him best were powerless to save. 
Now and then there came a moment 
When he knew the dear home faces; and as 
In childhood, folded safe within his 
Mother's arms, he said "Our Father," so when 
Near the close of life, he laid his head 
Upon that mother's breast,and breathed the prayer 
First sanctified by holiest lips. 
Dear ones went with him to the river's brink. 
And, as he neared the other shore, they seemed 
To hear his glad voice shouting back, 
"Forever with the Lord!" 

A mourning group stand watching for the train 
To bring the form so loved in life; and while 
We waiting prayed that God would "bind the 
Broken hearts," the dreaded moment came. 

A band of youthful students 
Gathered round the coffined form. With tear-wet 
Eyes and measured tread, they bore him to the 
Hearse. Gladly would friends apply the only 



95 



[96 Poems and Fragments. 

Balm to aching- hearts; but words have little - 
Power when soul and brain are paralyzed 
With grief. 

Sadl}- we pass within the home 
So late the abode of peace. But now 
The angel folds her wings, while one of dark, 
Forbidding mien usurps her place, and for 
The time bears rule, presenting to each lip 
A bitter cup, which must be drained down to 
Its very dregs. 

Tears, groans, and prayers 
Now echo forth the grief too deep for words. 
O death ! relentless ! why point your arrow 
~ At the young, the gifted, and the pure? 

But God is here, 
And while the voice of prayer is heard above 
The anguish, our faith looks forth to -the "blest 
Mansions," where the freed spirit dwells. 

O precious trust. 
That teaches us to place our hands within 
The hand that chastens, and helps to say, "He 
Doeth all things well." 



Lines. 



91 



For eighteen years he dwelt on earth — 

Eighteen short years, and yet how full 

Of precious memories; how rich in their 

Results, with life work better met than many 

A one who counts his fourscore years. 

Oh, let us reverently thank God, who 

"Gave and took again." 

We know that classmates promised by his side 

To seek the Lord, and time has proved those vows 

Were true. And so we know that we shall see 

Him decked with starry crown when we, too, reach 

The shining shore. 

O mourning ones, rejoice. The eyes now closed 
To you have pierced the veil, and feast upon 
The glories hid from mortal sight. The feet. 
For whose glad coming now you may not look 
Are walking o'er the "golden streets." The hands, 
Whose ministry you loved, have found a harp 
Of gold, while voice and lip unite in songs 
Of praise to Him who conquered death. 



Poems and Fragments. 



^^y ^en ctnfl \. 

i||j|EAR little pen, we have been friends together, 
^W We 've traveled over many a snowy plain ; 
■^Gyi Through all the long days of this Summer weather, 
We 've found far more of pleasure than of pain. 

We 've wandered out among the dewy grasses, 
And rested 'neath the friendly grape-vine's shade. 
Have roamed among the wild-wood mosses. 
In thickets where the birds their nests have made. 

Together we have climbed the lofty mountains, 
And from their heights have looked o'er all the land ; 
Or slaked our thirst from out the hidden fountains, 
Or stood upon the grand old ocean's strand. 

We 've drifted northward to the arctic winters, 
Or tarried under burning torrid skies ; 
Or southward, helped by favoring breezes, 
Where strange new beauties met our waiting ej^es. 

We 've sought the heavens, and looked on old Orion, 
The mighty warrior with his belt and sword, 



My Pen and I. 199 

Who treads his beat like sentinel untiring, 
Worthy of mention in God's holy Word. 

The "Pleiads" we have seen in near communion, 
Seven sisters in one household, loving kind, 
And often wondered if, in pleasant union, 
They sang together in the "morn of time." 

We 've looked into the hidden depths of ocean. 
Quiet and restful under God's command ; 
Again we 've seen the waves in wild commotion, 
Yet knew he held the waters in his hand. 

We 've wandered out, while yet the stars were shining. 
And watched the shadows as they fled away; 
We 've gladly welcomed the first hint of morning, 
That promised us another precious day. 

We've seen the great gray eastern walls dissolving, 
As sun rays climbed aloft with rosy hue, 
Revealing earth in daintiest adorning 
Of gossamer and pearly drops of dew. 

We 've watched the sun, marching in stately grandeur, 
Until half-way across the vaulted dome, 



200 Poems AND Fragments. 

Throwing its rays about in lavish manner, 
Blessing the earth from north to southern zone. 

We've seen it set in such a wondrous glory, 
That lip, or voice, or pen can not describe; 
Perhaps an angel's brush might tell the story ; 
We thought the "golden gates" were opened wide. 

Together we have read the precious pages, 
A revelation of God's wondrous plan, 
Surpassing all the wisdom of the sages, 
Lifting to high estate poor fallen man. 

We've found the spoken words and thoughts of Jesus, 
Among all other helps, by far the best. 
We 've borne in mind the loving invitation, 
"Come unto me, and I will give you rest." 

We 've proved the truth, the word of Christ unbroken, 
"My peace with you shall ever more remain." 
We'll trust him for the later promise spoken, 
"I go, but will return for you again." 



